Allegation of dog-touched meat in school mid-day meal sparks uproar in Medinipur

A serious lapse in hygiene and supervision at Hijli Primary School in Amanpur Panchayat, Keshpur Block, has triggered protests from parents. Allegations have surfaced that raw meat brought for the mid-day meal was contaminated by a stray dog before being cooked and served to children.

The incident came to light on Wednesday when several students reportedly saw a stray dog eating meat stored in a bucket in the school kitchen. Parents alleged that the teachers and cook were busy with other tasks, leaving the raw meat in an unsafe condition. Despite witnessing the incident, students were reportedly instructed not to reveal it, though they later informed their families.

Established in 1973, the school has about 60 students. Parents expressed outrage over the negligence, calling it a serious risk to children’s health. Doctors note that while properly cooking meat reduces infection risk, leaving raw meat exposed to contamination is a major lapse in safety.

The school’s headmistress acknowledged the situation but attempted to manage the fallout. School sources claimed that they themselves had eaten the same meat without any issues. Meanwhile, the Education Officer of West Medinipur Zilla Parishad confirmed that a detailed investigation has been initiated, promising strict administrative action if the allegations are verified.

The incident has left parents deeply concerned about their children’s health. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, emphasizing the need for stricter hygiene protocols in mid-day meal programs to prevent similar lapses in the future.