Key Points:
- Over 50 devotees fell ill due to suspected food poisoning in Nanded, Maharashtra.
- The incident occurred after consuming Bhagar and peanut cream during the Thakur Buwa pilgrimage.
- Four individuals were in critical condition but are now stable.
- Similar food poisoning cases reported earlier this month in Amravati, affecting over 100 women.
Nanded, Maharashtra: A spiritual gathering turned into a health emergency on Sunday, January 26, when more than 50 devotees fell ill during the Thakur Buwa pilgrimage in Mahur, Nanded district. The victims reportedly consumed Bhagar (a fasting dish) and peanut cream as part of their Ekadashi fast the previous night. By Sunday morning, many began experiencing symptoms of severe food poisoning, including vomiting and discomfort.
Emergency Response and Medical Updates
The affected devotees were immediately rushed to Mahur Rural Hospital. Among them, four individuals were initially reported to be in critical condition. However, medical officials have since assured that all patients are now stable and expected to be discharged soon.
Dr. Ramesh Patil, a senior medical officer at the hospital, stated, “The symptoms pointed to food poisoning caused by contaminated food items consumed during the fast. Timely medical intervention has ensured there are no fatalities.”
Details of the Incident
The devotees had gathered in Mahur for the Thakur Buwa pilgrimage on the occasion of Shattila Ekadashi. As part of their fasting rituals, they consumed Bhagar and peanut cream on Saturday night. By early Sunday morning, several individuals began showing signs of illness.
Authorities suspect that improper preparation or contamination of the food items led to the outbreak. Investigations are underway to identify the exact cause.
Similar Incident Earlier This Month in Amravati
This is not an isolated case of mass food poisoning in Maharashtra this month. On January 12, over 100 women working at Golden Fiber Company in Amravati’s Nandgaon Peth MIDC also fell ill after consuming water or breakfast provided by their employer.
Role of MNS Officials
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) officials played a crucial role in addressing the Amravati incident. Upon learning about the outbreak, they intervened and transported affected women to Amravati District Hospital for treatment.
An MNS spokesperson criticized the company’s delayed response, stating, “It is unacceptable that the company confined employees inside and called a doctor instead of allowing them immediate access to external medical care.”
Authorities Urged to Take Action
These back-to-back incidents have raised concerns about food safety standards during public gatherings and in workplaces. Experts emphasize stricter regulations and monitoring to prevent such occurrences in the future.
For now, devotees recovering from the Nanded incident can breathe a sigh of relief as they prepare to return home safely. However, these events serve as a stark reminder of the importance of hygiene and vigilance when preparing food for large groups.
