Hostel food scare in Ahmedabad: NHRC steps in, seeks accountability

  • Rights Panel Takes Suo Motu Cognisance of Mass Illness Among Girls
  • Notices Issued to Gujarat Chief Secretary & Ahmedabad Police Commissioner
  • Report to Cover Health Status of Victims & Probe Findings
  • Incident Raises Serious Questions on Safety & Welfare Standards

NE LEGAL BUREAU
NEW DELHI, APR 9

The National Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu cognisance of a disturbing incident in Ahmedabad, where several girls reportedly fell ill after consuming food at a hostel in the Memnagar area.

According to reports dated April 5, around 57 girls experienced symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea and vomiting, prompting immediate medical attention.

NHRC Flags Possible Human Rights Violation

Taking serious note of the incident, the Commission observed: “The content of the news report, if true, raise a serious issue of violation of the human rights of the victims.”

Notices Issued, Two-Week Deadline Set

The NHRC has issued notices to the state authorities, seeking accountability and clarity.

Officials have been directed to submit a detailed report within two weeks, covering:

  • Current health condition of the affected girls
  • Findings of the ongoing investigation

Hospitalisation & Medical Response

As per initial reports:

  • 18 girls were admitted to hospital
  • Others were kept under close medical observation

The swift medical response helped stabilise the situation, though concerns remain over food safety and institutional oversight.

Spotlight on Hostel Safety & Oversight

The incident has brought renewed focus on:

  • Food safety standards in hostels
  • Monitoring mechanisms for student welfare
  • Accountability of authorities managing such facilities