7-year-old dies, 18 children hospitalised after eating golgappas in Jharkhand’s Giridih

A seven-year-old child has died and at least 18 others have been hospitalised after allegedly consuming contaminated golgappas and chaat in Giridih district of Jharkhand, triggering panic in the affected village. The incident occurred in Leda Bajto village under the Mufassil police station area, where several children and a few adults fell ill shortly after eating food from a roadside vendor.

According to officials, the victims complained of severe illness soon after consuming golgappas and chole chaat, leading to their immediate hospitalisation. One child succumbed during treatment, while 18 others continue to receive medical care at the Sadar Hospital. Authorities suspect food poisoning as the primary cause, although the exact reason is yet to be confirmed.

Sadar Sub-Divisional Police Officer Jeetvahan Oraon confirmed the death and said that all affected individuals are being closely monitored. The condition of several children is reported to be serious, prompting heightened medical attention. The situation has caused widespread concern among villagers, many of whom were already dealing with cases of diarrhea linked to extreme heat conditions.

Deputy Commissioner Ramniwas Yadav visited the hospital soon after the incident and met the families of the affected children. He instructed doctors to ensure proper treatment and directed officials to carry out a thorough investigation into the matter. He stated that along with the 18 children, two adults also fell ill after consuming the food.

Officials indicated that stale or improperly stored food could have contributed to the outbreak. Water samples from the area are being tested, and authorities are examining all possible causes, including hygiene practices of the roadside vendor. A detailed investigation is currently underway to determine accountability and prevent further such incidents.