Lizard found in food at Bengal's Deganga Anganwadi Center triggers hospitalization of 14 children

A lizard was found in the food served at an Anganwadi center in the North Parpatna area of Deganga, prompting immediate concern among parents and health authorities. The incident came to light when a parent noticed the lizard in the meal after it had already been distributed to several children. The Anganwadi center is part of a government initiative aimed at improving nutrition and health among young children and pregnant women through supplementary feeding.

Following the discovery of the lizard, parents quickly contacted local health officials and rushed their children to Bishnathpur Rural Hospital for evaluation. A total of fourteen children, aged between three to six years, were taken to the hospital after consuming the contaminated food. Medical staff at the hospital provided initial treatment and ensured that the children were monitored for any potential health effects, including signs of gastrointestinal distress. Health officials have stated that the children are under observation and will continue to be assessed for any adverse reactions.

The incident at the Anganwadi center is not an isolated case; previous reports have documented instances of food safety violations within the mid-day meal program, including the presence of snakes, frogs, and spiders in meals served at various Anganwadi centers across West Bengal. Such occurrences have raised significant concerns about hygiene practices, food sourcing, and the overall safety of meals provided to children, who are particularly vulnerable to foodborne illnesses. Investigations have indicated lapses in food handling procedures, and various community organizations have called for stricter regulatory oversight.

In response to the latest incident, local health authorities have launched a thorough investigation into the food handling and preparation practices at the Anganwadi center. The investigation will assess how the lizard entered the food supply and whether proper sanitation measures were followed during food preparation. Health officials are reviewing the training provided to staff on food safety protocols and are expected to implement enhanced guidelines to ensure compliance with hygiene standards.