A funeral feast in Nuadihi village under Hemgir block of Sundargarh district turned tragic, claiming four lives and leaving more than 17 people ill.
The incident occurred after villagers consumed food served during a tenth‑day ritual meal.
Local sources reported that two victims belonged to Nuadihi village, while two women from Sunakhain village under Attabira Panchayat in Jharsuguda district also died. The deceased were identified as Ullas Khadia and Mangal Sukanti Khadia.
Soon after the feast, several attendees complained of vomiting and diarrhoea. Health officials suspect food contamination as the cause of the outbreak. Medical teams rushed to both villages to assess the situation and provide treatment.
Doctors treated the affected individuals at Hemgir Hospital, while critically ill patients were shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital. Officials confirmed that the condition of several patients remains serious.
Preliminary investigation suggests that the food served during the ceremony may have been improperly stored or contaminated. Authorities have collected samples for laboratory testing to determine the exact cause.
The district administration has urged residents to exercise caution during community feasts and ensure proper hygiene in food preparation.
