Photo: OTV
Public Health Director Nilakantha Mishra
Public Health Director Nilakantha Mishra on Thursday confirmed that the food (mango kernel gruel) consumed by the Mandipanka village under the Daringbadi block in Kandhamal district had the presence of Hydrogen Sulphide, turning it toxic.
The test reports of the food item have come out positive for the presence of Hydrogen Sulphide in the food, he said.
Regarding the health conditions of the two patients undergoing treatment at SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack, he said, their health conditions are improving and they are conscious.
“Yesterday’s dialysis reports show their conditions are improving. The reports show their creatinine levels have decreased. Their systems are improving. Their mental conditions are also showing improvement,” said Mishra.
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“Those who consumed it on the first day hadn’t complained of any health issues. When the same thing was consumed after two days, it had already turned toxic, resulting in health issues. Meanwhile, the testing reports have also reached. They are positive for the presence of Hydrogen Sulphide in food,” he added.
He refused to divulge anything more as the case is being investigated by an RDC-level team.
Meanwhile, the Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) directed the government to ensure that there should be no repetition of such incidents and to take steps so that people, particularly in tribal areas of Kandhamal and other districts, are free from hunger and do not resort to consuming such items.
- Reported by:
- ARACHANA SATPATHY
