A health emergency unfolded at Bodhjungh Girls Higher Secondary School in Agartala, as 20 female students fell seriously ill with severe stomach pains after reportedly consuming a meal at their hostel on Thursday.
Mita Das, a teacher at the school, described the sudden onset of symptoms among the students after morning prayers. “Several girls complained of stomach ache upon entering the classroom. Some even fainted, prompting us to call an ambulance and rush them to the hospital,” she explained.
One of the affected students recounted, “Shortly after arriving at school, we began experiencing stomach pain and vomiting. We had eaten dal and rice for breakfast at our hostel, Maharaja Bir Bikram Welfare Society.”
Following the incident, the school staff promptly transported the students to GB Pant Hospital for immediate medical attention. Kanak Chowdhury, Deputy Medical Superintendent at the hospital, indicated that the symptoms were likely indicative of food poisoning. “All students are stable. We provided them with necessary treatment, including saline and medication. Some have already been discharged after initial care,” he reassured.
Chowdhury acknowledged the students’ apprehension, being away from their families during treatment, and attributed the incident possibly to food poisoning exacerbated by changing weather conditions.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring the well-being of the affected students as investigations into the cause of the incident are ongoing.