A sudden health emergency struck Special Jail, Jharapada in Bhubaneswar today when seven inmates collapsed with severe illness, sparking fears of food poisoning.
One of the affected prisoners is a Maoist leader, while the other six belong to the group arrested on June 22 in connection with the Badagada Police Station Case Nos. 493/494.
All seven prisoners were immediately shifted to Capital Hospital for urgent medical care. Three elderly inmates, among them are in critical condition, have been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
Taking serious note of the incident, Bhubaneswar DCP Jagmohan Meena rushed to Capital Hospital to personally assess the health of the ailing prisoners. Doctors confirmed that treatment is continuing and the patients’ condition is now under control.
Jail authorities and the Health Department have launched a joint investigation to determine the exact cause of the illness. Preliminary checks are examining possibilities such as contaminated food, an infectious disease outbreak, or other factors.
As a precautionary measure, health screenings of all other inmates at Jharapada Jail are underway, and preventive steps have been strengthened.
Jharapada Special Jail Superintendent stated that the precise reason behind the sudden illness is still under investigation, but the administration is treating the matter with the highest priority.
