Not fewer than 100 schoolchildren in Mokama, Bihar, have reportedly fallen ill after consuming a government-provided midday meal from which a dead snake had allegedly been removed before serving.
The alarming incident has triggered public outrage and drawn the attention of India’s National Human Rights Commission, which has launched an investigation.
Initial reports suggest that the school cook discovered a dead snake in the food but still proceeded to serve the meal after removing the reptile.
The NHRC responded with a strong public statement, saying, “This is deeply troubling. If true, it signifies a serious lapse in food safety and a violation of the students’ fundamental rights.”
The Commission has asked senior officials from the state to submit a detailed report within two weeks, which must include updates on the health status of the affected children.
Approximately 500 students are believed to have been served the meal under the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, a nationwide program aimed at reducing child hunger and boosting school attendance.
Following the incident, outraged residents staged a protest and blocked a major road in the area, demanding accountability.
“Our children go to school to learn, not to be poisoned. Authorities must take strict action,” said one parent in an interview with local media.
The Mid-Day Meal Scheme, considered one of the largest school lunch programs in the world, has faced recurring scrutiny over hygiene and safety standards. In 2013, a similar tragedy in Bihar saw 23 children die after consuming food contaminated with pesticides.
“This is not the first time such negligence is being reported. The system needs urgent reform,” said a local education activist.
Authorities have confirmed that an investigation is underway, and health officials are closely monitoring the condition of the affected students.
