Bhubaneswar, Nov 2: Contrary to initial reports, Public Health Director Bijay Mohapatra clarified that the deaths of two women and the illness of five others in Mandipanka village, located in the Daringbadi block of Kandhamal, were caused by food poisoning rather than the consumption of mango kernels as initially suspected.

The incident had raised concerns, but Mohapatra’s statement ruled out mango kernels as the source, pointing instead to contaminated food. Following the primary investigation report, he stated, “Food and drink samples have been sent to the Food Safety Agency for testing. The report is expected within 72 hours, after which the exact cause of death will be determined. The affected individuals are still undergoing treatment.”

The State government has expressed concern and ordered a thorough investigation into the incident.

It's important to note that Mandipanka villagers Ramita Patmajhi and Runu Majhi initially fell ill after consuming food they believed to be mango kernels, suffering from severe stomach pain and vomiting before passing away.

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