Expressing concern over the poisonous mid-day meal (MDM) served to more than 200 children at Dapa UGME School in Kanpada panchayat of Tihidi block in Bhadrak district, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sought a report from the School and Mass Education Secretary within four weeks.
Rights campaigner Radhakanta Tripathy moved the apex human rights panel over the issue. According to the complainant, on August 5 this year nearly 200 students of the Dapa UGME School in Kanpada panchayat of Tihidi block complained uneasiness after eating mid day meal in which a dead lizard was found. Unfortunately, the school authorities did not take them to hospital.
Students namely Gayatri Das, Bhumika Das, Puja Das, Sambit Das were taken to hospital by their family members, the complainant added.
“The negligence of State authorities amount serious violation of human rights of the children,” Radhakanta alleged. He requested the NHRC to investigate the case and direct the Govt to provide detailed report on the case, besides ensuring safe and nutritious food in MDM scheme.