“Government Shifts to ‘Action Mode’ Over Giridih Food Poisoning Incident: Minister Dr. Irfan Ansari Orders Strict Inquiry and Statewide Raids”
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Jharkhand’s Minister for Health and Food Supply, Dr. Irfan Ansari, has taken a firm stance regarding the incident in Giridih district where children fell ill—and one innocent child lost their life—after consuming *golgappas* (street food). Deeming this matter a grave public health emergency, the Minister has ordered an immediate, high-level inquiry.
The Minister stated that this incident is not only tragic but also indicative of a serious disregard for food safety standards. The culprits will not be spared under any circumstances.
Directives for Strict Action Across the State
The Minister has issued directives to conduct a special drive across the entire state, under which:
* Street food vendors, hotels, restaurants, and sweet shops will be inspected.
* Microbiological and chemical testing of food products will be conducted.
* The quality of drinking water will be under special surveillance.
* Compliance with FSSAI standards will be rigorously checked.
* Suspicious food items will be seized and sent to laboratories for testing.
Action Taken So Far in the Giridih Case
* The concerned *golgappa* vendor has been arrested.
* Food samples have been sent to a laboratory in Kolkata for analysis.
* Strict legal action will be initiated based on the findings of the report.
The Minister’s Stern Message
Minister Dr. Irfan Ansari stated:
“Public health is paramount. There will be no compromise on food safety. Direct and strict action will now be taken against adulteration, unhygienic conditions, or negligence. A ‘Zero Tolerance Policy’ has been implemented across the state.”
Government on High Alert
Following the incident, the Health Department, the Food Safety Department, and the District Administration have been placed on high alert. The affected children are currently undergoing treatment under close medical supervision, and the situation is reported to be under control.
Expressing his deepest condolences to the bereaved family, the Minister assured them that the government stands firmly by their side at every level. Furthermore, strict standards are being implemented to prevent the recurrence of such incidents in the future. Appeal to the Public
The government has appealed to citizens to exercise particular caution regarding hygiene and quality when purchasing food items sold in the open, and to immediately report any suspicious activity to the administration.
