Bhubaneswar, Nov 2: The Odisha government clarified on Saturday that the recent deaths of two women in Mandipanka village, located in the Daringbadi block of Kandhamal district, were due to food poisoning rather than the consumption of gruel made from mango kernels. Six others are currently receiving treatment at MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur, where their condition remains critical.
Public Health Director Bijay Mohapatra dismissed earlier reports attributing the deaths to mango kernel consumption, stating that preliminary investigations indicated food poisoning as the cause. He confirmed that contaminated food, not mango kernels, led to the tragic outcome and noted that food and drink samples have been sent for additional testing, with results expected within 72 hours.
“The report will clarify the actual cause of death,” Mohapatra stated, adding that those affected are still under medical care. In light of the deaths, the state government has ordered an investigation into the incident.
It is important to note that the deceased women, Ramita Patmajhi and Runu Majhi, experienced severe stomach pain and vomiting before their deaths.
Food poisoning, not mango kernel, blamed for deaths of two women in Kandhamal
