Telangana Gurukul Food Poisoning Case: State Human Rights Commission Orders Probe into Legal Violations

(Syed Ali Taher Abedi)

 Hyderabad, 280July,2025- The Human Rights Commission has taken Suo motu cognizance of a deeply troubling incident reported across multiple leading newspapers—including Sakshi, Namasthe Telangana, Eenadu, Deccan Chronicle, and The Hindu—regarding a mass food poisoning outbreak at the Mahatma Jyothiba Pule BC Welfare Gurukul School, near Uyyalawada in Nagarkurnool District.

On the night of July 26, 2025, 111 intermediate-level students reportedly experienced severe stomach pain and vomiting after consuming dinner at the school hostel. They were immediately rushed to the Nagarkurnool Government Hospital for emergency treatment.

The Commission emphasized that if the reported allegations are verified, the incident could amount to a gross violation of the children’s fundamental rights, including:

Right to life, dignity, health, and safety under Articles 21 and 21A of the Constitution of India

International human rights principles regarding child welfare and the right to safe, adequate food—especially for children from marginalized and tribal communities

Given the gravity of the situation, the Commission has classified the matter as one involving serious breaches of children’s rights, warranting urgent and systemic intervention.

Directive Issued to Government of Telangana: The Chief Secretary has been instructed to submit a detailed report by August 28, 2025 at 11:00AM, addressing the following:

Current health status and medical care given to the affected students

Any inquiry findings from district or departmental investigations

Disciplinary action initiated against responsible officials or staff

Preventive steps to improve food safety, hygiene, and hostel oversight across government-run institutions