Over 100 Children Fall Ill After Snake Found in School Meal — NHRC Launches Investigation

India’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has launched an investigation into a disturbing incident in Bihar where more than 100 schoolchildren reportedly fell ill after consuming a midday meal allegedly contaminated by a dead snake.

The incident took place on April 24 at Upkramit Madhya Vidyalaya in Mekra village, located in the Mokama block of Patna district. Reports indicate that a snake accidentally fell into the food while it was being prepared. Despite noticing the contamination, the cook is said to have removed the snake and continued serving the meal to about 500 pupils.

Shortly after eating, many students began experiencing symptoms including vomiting and dizziness, triggering panic among parents and community members. Over two dozen children were hospitalized, and two were transferred to a more advanced facility. Medical tests later showed no traces of poison, and the affected children are recovering.

Reacting to the incident, the NHRC took suo motu action and issued notices to the Bihar State Government and the Patna Police Command, demanding a comprehensive report within two weeks. The Commission described the situation as a serious human rights concern if the reports are confirmed to be true.

This case has once again spotlighted critical safety lapses in India’s Mid-Day Meal Scheme, a program that provides free lunches to millions of children across the country. Though designed to combat hunger and improve school attendance, the scheme has faced repeated criticism over food safety and hygiene standards.

The public is now calling for stricter oversight and stronger accountability to prevent such dangerous lapses in school meal programs.