NHRC, India, takes suo motu cognizance of a media report alleging that more than 100 children fell sick after consuming the mid-day meal in the Mokama area of ​​Patna, Bihar

Allegedly, the cook removed a dead snake from the food and then served the same to the children.

The Commission issues a notice to the Chief Secretary, Bihar, and the Superintendent of Police, Patna, seeking a detailed report within two weeks.

The report is required to include details of the health condition of the children.

• The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report alleging that more than 100 children fell sick after consuming mid-day meal in a Government School in Mokama area of ​​Patna, Bihar, on 24th April 2025. Allegedly, the cook removed a dead snake from the food and then served the same to the children.
• The Commission has found that the material, if true, raises a serious issue of violation of the human rights of the students. Therefore, the Commission has issued a notice to the Chief Secretary, Government of Bihar, and Senior Superintendent of Police, Patna, Bihar, and sought a detailed report of the matter within two weeks. The report is expected to include details of the health condition of the children.
• According to media reports on April 25, 2025, about 500 children had eaten the mid-day meal. Due to the news of children falling ill after eating the mid-day meal, protesting villagers blocked the road.