Children in India fall ill after dead snake reportedly found in school lunch

India’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has launched an investigation into alarming reports that more than 100 schoolchildren in the eastern state of Bihar became ill after eating a contaminated lunch in which a dead snake was allegedly discovered.

The incident took place in the city of Mokama, where authorities believe around 500 students were served the midday meal. According to an NHRC statement, the school’s cook reportedly removed the dead snake but proceeded to serve the food anyway.

Soon after the meal, dozens of children began showing signs of illness, prompting outrage in the local community. Residents responded by blocking a nearby road in protest, demanding accountability and swift action.

“The commission has observed that the contents, if true, raise a serious issue of violation of the human rights of the students,” the NHRC said.

The rights body has requested a comprehensive report within two weeks from senior state officials. The report must include information on the children's current health status and the measures taken in response to the incident.

India’s Mid-Day Meal program, which offers free lunches to schoolchildren—especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds—has been in place since 1925. Originally launched in Chennai (formerly Madras), the scheme has become one of the largest of its kind in the world, aiming to fight child hunger and encourage school attendance.

However, food safety concerns have periodically plagued the program. In a tragic 2013 incident, 23 students in Bihar died after consuming a meal later found to be tainted with “very toxic” pesticide residue, according to police and scientific tests.