Tension gripped the Tikapali Government Primary School under Patnagarh block in Balangir district on Thursday as local parents staged a vociferous protest over the poor quality of food served to students under the mid-day meal scheme.
According to reports, students from Class 1 to 5—numbering over 40 children managed by just two teachers—were allegedly being served meals prepared using weevil-infested (pokara) rice. For a long time, parents have complained that children are routinely denied proper meals, including adequate quantities of lentils, vegetables, and eggs.
Enraged by the continuous disregard for their children’s health, local residents and parents rushed to the school premises, expressing strong resentment and demanding immediate disciplinary action against the teacher in charge.
When questioned, the school cook claimed that they only cook whatever rations are provided to them. Meanwhile, Additional Education Officer (AEO) Raghunath Mahara stated that an inquiry into the allegations has been launched. “The matter is being thoroughly investigated, and strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty,” he assured.
However, the local community remains firm in their stance, warning that if prompt action is not taken against the responsible educators, they will intensify their protests in the coming days.
