NHRC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Student Death, Mass Food Poisoning at Odisha Ashram School

April 24, 2026 : The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report concerning the death of a 12-year-old boy and illness of over 100 students after allegedly consuming stale food at a hostel of Kakabandh Ashram School in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha, on April 14, 2026. The deceased was a Class 5 student at the institution, which is operated by the State’s ST and SC Welfare Department.

Observing that the reported incident, if verified, indicates serious human rights concerns, the Commission has issued notices to the Chief Secretary of Odisha and the Superintendent of Police, Mayurbhanj. It has sought a detailed report within two weeks, including updates on the investigation and the medical condition of the affected students.

As per media reports dated April 15, 2026, around 67 students were in critical condition and were admitted to Baripada Medical College and Hospital, while 41 others were undergoing treatment at a Community Health Centre.