Odisha Govt Says Deaths In Kandhamal Due To Food Poisoning, Not Mango Kernel Gruel

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Saturday clarified that the death of two women at Mandipanka village under Daringbadi block of Kandhamal district was caused by food poisoning and not consumption of gruel made of mango kernel.

Six others are reportedly undergoing treatment at MKCG Medical College and Hospital (MCH) in Berhampur and their condition is stated to be critical.

Dismissing initial reports about consumption of gruel made of mango kernel having caused the tragedy, Public Health Director Bijay Mohapatra said preliminary findings showed that the incident was caused by food poisoning.

He ruled out the mango kernel causing the death and said it was due to contaminated food and said food and drink samples have been sent for further tests and the reports will be available in 72 hours.

“Food and drink samples have been sent to the Food Safety Agency for testing. The report is expected within 72 hours, after which the actual cause of death will be clear. The ailing persons are still undergoing treatment,” Mohapatra said.

Expressing concern over the deaths, the state government has ordered a probe into the incident.

It is pertinent to mention that the two residents of Mandipanka village Ramita Patmajhi and Runu Majhi died after reportedly eating mango kernel. Ramita and Runu experienced severe stomach pain and frequent vomiting after eating the mango kernel and died. Six other affected persons have been shifted to MKCG Medical College Hospital in Berhampur for treatment.