In a tragic incident from Yeriyur village in Karnataka’s Chamarajanagara district, nine children from migrant families were hospitalised after consuming poisonous seeds from a wild plant. The children, whose families had migrated from Maharashtra for seasonal work in the sugarcane fields, reportedly ingested seeds from the marking nut tree, known locally as Maralekayi. These seeds, although commonly found in the region, are known to be highly toxic if consumed. Fortunately, all the affected children are said to be out of danger after receiving timely medical intervention.
The incident took place on Sunday when the children were playing near the fields. Unaware of the danger, they picked and ate the seeds. Within a short time, they began to experience severe symptoms including vomiting and abdominal pain, prompting an immediate medical response. The children were taken to the district hospital, where doctors confirmed that the symptoms were consistent with poisoning from the marking nut. Three of the nine children were initially in critical condition but have since stabilised following treatment.
Police and health officials are continuing to monitor the situation closely, even though no formal complaint has been filed by the parents. Authorities have issued advisories urging residents, particularly those unfamiliar with the region’s flora, to educate their children about the risks of consuming unidentified wild fruits or seeds. The incident serves as a reminder of the hidden dangers faced by migrant communities unfamiliar with the local environment.
