Desk Correspondent , Bhubaneswar - Over 100 students fell ill and one 5 standard girl died due to suspected food poisoning after consuming unauthorised meals at Kakabandha Ashram School, a state-run tribal residential facility in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha. The incident occurred on Sunday morning when students ate fermented rice (pakhala), mashed potatoes, and mango chutney items which are allegedly not on the authorised menu. Symptoms including vomiting, loose motions, and severe discomfort rapidly affected more than 120 children.

Rupali Besra, the deceased student, was admitted to the ICU at PRM Medical College and Hospital in Baripada on Monday and succumbed on Tuesday morning despite medical efforts. Around 67 students were shifted to the hospital for treatment, while 41 others received care at the local Rasgovindpur Community Health Centre. Authorities have launched a police probe following a complaint by the girl's mother, and District Collector Hema Kanta Say announced an independent inquiry into the alleged menu violation and negligence. Headmaster Jayant Kumar Panigrahi has been suspended.

The Odisha government announced ₹7 lakh ex-gratia to the bereaved family, and Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra visited the affected students and parents at the hospital. Medical teams continue monitoring the school, with several children still undergoing treatment. Villagers blocked a nearby road demanding swift action and compensation. The case has raised serious concerns over food safety and oversight in government residential schools for tribal children.