Just days after 50 students from ZPHS Maganur in Narayanpet district were hospitalized due to food poisoning from mid-day meals, a similar incident occurred on November 26. Over 30 students complained of severe stomach pain and vomiting, with two female students in critical condition transferred to Mahabubnagar Government Hospital. Despite the previous investigation identifying poor-quality eggs and rice as the cause, the recurrence has left parents alarmed and questioning the safety measures implemented. Authorities had earlier suspended key education officials and canceled contracts with the meal suppliers, but the issue persists, raising concerns about accountability and oversight.

After the first incident, meals were prepared under official supervision, and contaminated ingredients were replaced. However, even under enhanced monitoring, students fell ill again, sparking outrage among parents and local leaders. Siddipet MLA T Harish Rao criticized the state government for its inaction, questioning the failure to enforce stricter safeguards. Videos of the students being rushed to hospitals went viral, with Harish Rao calling for stricter penalties, including jail time, for those responsible. He reminded Chief Minister Revanth Reddy of promises to prioritize student safety but noted that no meaningful change has been made on the ground.

The repeated cases of food poisoning have highlighted serious lapses in the mid-day meal program’s implementation and quality control. Villagers, who had participated in monitoring the food preparation process, expressed dismay at the lack of improvement. Narayanpet Collector Sikta Patnaik has promised a renewed investigation, but parents remain skeptical, demanding a permanent solution to ensure the safety of their children. This ongoing crisis underscores the urgent need for systemic reform and accountability in managing school meal programs.