Four children died and several others fell critically ill, allegedly due to food poisoning, at a government-run rehabilitation centre for special needs children in the Para area of Lucknow. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
According to officials, over 20 children residing at the shelter home experienced sudden illness on Tuesday evening and were rushed to Lokbandhu Raj Narayan Combined Hospital.
Lucknow District Magistrate Vishak G confirmed the deaths, stating, “A total of four children, including two boys and two girls aged between 12 and 17, have lost their lives. Their bodies have been sent for post-mortem, and their viscera will be preserved for further examination.”
Medical Response and Investigation
Dr. Rajeev Kumar Dixit, Medical Superintendent of Lokbandhu Hospital, stated that the affected children were suffering from severe dehydration when they arrived. Despite medical intervention, two children succumbed to their condition. Two critically ill children were transferred to another government hospital, while the remaining 16 are now stable.
A medical team has been deployed at the shelter home to monitor the health of other children, with seven still under observation.
Authorities Step In
To determine the cause of the suspected food poisoning, District Magistrate Vishak G has set up a special committee. Officials from the Health Department and Food Safety Department visited the hospital to speak with the affected children.
Food samples from the rehabilitation centre have been collected for analysis, and authorities have assured strict action based on the findings of the investigation.
Rehabilitation Centre Details
According to District Probation Officer Vikas Singh, the rehabilitation centre houses 147 children, most of whom are orphans or have mental health challenges.
Officials are now focusing on ensuring the well-being of the remaining children at the facility while awaiting test results and further investigation into the tragedy.
Sources By Agencies