Hathras Tragedy: Multiple People Fall Critically Ill After Consuming Suspected Poisonous Food During Community Gathering

Hathras News: In Hathras district’s Madhuri village, three boxes of sweets filled with khoya laddoos were found at a temple on the evening of October 21. Locals believed it was sacred prasad, offered it to God, and then distributed it among themselves. No one imagined that the same sweets would soon bring tragedy to the village.

Why Were More Boxes Found Next Day?

On October 22, villagers again found three more boxes of sweets at the temple. Thinking it was prasad, they distributed and consumed them with joy. Men, women, and children all ate the sweets, but by the same evening, several people began feeling unwell.

When Did Symptoms Appear?

From the night of October 22, villagers started experiencing nausea, dizziness, and severe stomach pain. Initially dismissed as minor illness, their condition worsened quickly. Families rushed the sick to the local community health centre and nearby hospitals as the situation turned critical.

Who Were The Victims?

By October 23, twelve villagers were referred to Agra for advanced treatment. Among the victims was 55-year-old Munni Devi, wife of Sunil Kumar, who tragically died in the village. Six others, including children, women, and men, were treated at the Sikandra Rao community health centre.

What Did Health Officials Do?

On October 24, health department teams reached the village after news spread. They collected leftover laddoos from the temple and sent them for laboratory tests. Officials confirmed that traces of poisonous or infectious substances are suspected in the sweets.

What Steps Did Authorities Take?

On the morning of October 25, SDM Sanjay Kumar and CHC in-charge Dr. Raj Verma inspected the situation. Two women, three men, and one child received treatment under the supervision of a dozen doctors. Villagers gathered in large numbers, demanding answers and safety assurances.

What Lies Ahead For Villagers?

A medical team continues monitoring the patients’ condition. Authorities say the source of the poison will be identified soon. Fear and uncertainty grip the village as residents ask: who left the sweets at the temple, and why? The community now waits anxiously for justice and safety.