Golaghat, Assam – October 21, 2024:
A heart-wrenching incident occurred in the Golaghat district of Assam when over 200 attendees at a memorial service fell ill after consuming Jolpan, a traditional Assamese dish. The event was organized by Pradeep Gogoi in memory of his late mother on Saturday, where guests were served Jolpan, made with puffed rice and cream. This staple Assamese snack, normally enjoyed for its light and refreshing qualities, took a tragic turn, leading to widespread food poisoning.
The aftermath saw 53 guests rushed to hospitals in Sarupatar Town and Urianghat, suffering from symptoms like stomach pain, headaches, vomiting, and diarrhea. The condition of two individuals was so severe that they had to be transferred to Jorhat Medical College Hospital for advanced medical care.
Immediate Response and Medical Assistance
As the news of the incident spread, local health authorities swiftly took action. Medical camps were established in the affected village to conduct health tests and ensure the well-being of the remaining participants. According to officials, many of those who were hospitalized have shown signs of improvement and were discharged on Sunday. However, approximately 150 people are still recovering at home with milder symptoms, under continuous medical supervision.
In a show of solidarity, Sarupatar MLA Biswajit Phukan visited the hospital to check on the victims and assure them of ongoing support. Local health officials further mentioned that medical staff were dispatched to the homes of those affected, conducting door-to-door health checks to monitor any delayed symptoms of food poisoning.
Investigation Underway
The cause of the food poisoning is currently under investigation, with initial reports suggesting contamination of the Jolpan as the primary culprit. Local authorities are conducting tests to determine the exact cause of contamination and ensure no further health hazards arise. Officials are also urging people to remain cautious and adhere to food safety standards, especially during large gatherings.
A Cultural Staple with a Dark Turn
Jolpan, which traditionally includes puffed rice mixed with curd or cream, holds a special place in Assamese culture, often served at social gatherings and festivals. The dish is known for being a light snack, usually enjoyed for breakfast or evening tea. However, this unfortunate incident has cast a shadow on the joyful tradition, as concerns grow over food safety practices at such community events.
Community Concern
The local community, shaken by the incident, has expressed concern over the safety of traditional foods served at large gatherings. Many have urged for stricter food preparation and storage regulations to avoid such incidents in the future. As the investigation unfolds, residents are hoping for quick answers and measures to prevent a recurrence.
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