Tragedy / Pesticide-Laced Rice Kills Two Children in Puri, Mother Critical

Puri, Aug 17: In a heartbreaking incident in Puri district, two innocent children died from suspected food poisoning caused by pesticide-contaminated rice. The tragedy occurred in Samangara area, where a mother unknowingly cooked rice without washing it.

According to reports, the woman prepared the rice and ate it along with her six-year-old son and one-and-a-half-year-old daughter. Shortly after the meal, all three fell seriously ill.

They were rushed to Puri District Headquarters Hospital, where doctors declared the two children dead. The mother, in critical condition, was later shifted to Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar.

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In her statement to police, the woman revealed that the rice contained pesticide and she had cooked it without washing. This led to severe poisoning. Her husband, who was away at work, said he was not at home when the incident occurred.

Doctors suspect food poisoning as the cause of death, though the exact reason will be confirmed after post-mortem reports.

Police are investigating all angles, including whether the rice was accidentally contaminated during storage or if foul play was involved due to family disputes.

The incident has sparked widespread discussion in the locality. Authorities are treating the matter with utmost seriousness, keeping all possibilities under investigation.

Danger of Pesticide in Rice

Experts warn that pesticide contamination in rice is extremely dangerous. Even small amounts can cause severe health hazards. Improper storage or accidental mixing of chemicals can lead to toxic effects.

Health officials advise households to keep pesticides and chemicals away from food grains. Natural methods such as neem leaves or turmeric can be used to protect rice from insects instead of harmful chemicals.