By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: After consuming khichdi at Aasra Home, a shelter in Patel Nagar under the jurisdiction of Shastri Nagar police station in Patna, several girls fell seriously ill. The affected girls were taken to Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH), where two of them succumbed to illness—one on 7 November and another on 10 November. Nine others remain under treatment in the emergency ward, while two have been discharged following recovery. In response, the Social Welfare Department has assigned four counsellors to provide ongoing support to the residents.
One of the girls undergoing treatment recounted that after eating khichdi on the morning of 7 November, many began experiencing severe vomiting, followed by fainting spells. Although first aid was provided at Aasra Home, their condition continued to deteriorate, prompting their transfer to PMCH. Tragically, one of the girls passed away on the same day, and another lost her life during treatment.
Rekha Singh, an auxiliary nurse midwife (ANM) from Patna Sadar, confirmed that 44 girls remain in residence at the shelter home. The Child Protection Commission has increased its vigilance following the incident, and its Chairman, Dr Amardeep, is scheduled to visit Aasra Home to gather information.
SDPO Saket Kumar reported that the first death occurred on 7 November after the girl was hospitalised, while a second girl’s health worsened, leading to her death on 10 November. The shelter home notified the police of the health crisis on 8 November. In response, the district administration has stationed a doctor, two ANMs, and an ambulance at the shelter home until 17 November.
Further investigation is underway, with the District Magistrate (DM) appointing a special team to look into the cause of the incident. A food inspector has also collected samples of water and food from the shelter. The findings of the investigation, including the post-mortem report, are expected to reveal the cause of the incident.
