13-Year-Old Dies, 28 Hospitalized in Suspected Food Poisoning at Unlicensed Karnataka Hostel

Authorities have arrested three individuals as investigations reveal the private school hostel was operating illegally with unsafe food practices.

A 13-year-old boy from Meghalaya died, and 28 other students were hospitalized after consuming leftover food at an unlicensed hostel in Mandya, Karnataka.
The hostel, operated by Gokula Vidya Samsthe, lacked proper infrastructure and was running illegally within the school premises since 1989.
The food, served during Holi celebrations, was sourced from a local event without quality checks and later distributed to the hostel students.
Three individuals, including the cook, hostel warden, and school owner, have been arrested for negligence and unsafe food practices.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed grief, assured compensation for the deceased's family, and ordered strict action against those responsible.