Bhubaneswar, Mar 19: Panic gripped a village in Kendrapara district after nearly 40 people were hospitalised when a dead snake was allegedly found in food served during a community feast on Wednesday night.

The incident took place at Deuli village under Pattamundai Municipality during a religious Bhagabat Saptaha programme, where a feast had been organised for around 400 attendees. According to reports, the shocking discovery was made when a poisonous snake was found inside a container of Dalma, a traditional dish served to the gathering.

As the news spread, chaos and fear erupted among those present, especially individuals who had already consumed the food. Several people complained of discomfort and were immediately rushed to the Pattamundai Sub-Divisional Hospital for medical attention.

Doctors at the hospital confirmed that around 40 individuals have been admitted and are currently under observation. While most patients are reported to be stable, authorities are taking no chances and have initiated necessary medical procedures.

Meanwhile, many others who attended the feast are lining up for precautionary health check-ups, including blood tests, to rule out any possible contamination or poisoning.

Local authorities have launched an inquiry into the incident to determine how the contamination occurred, as concerns grow over food safety and hygiene at large public gatherings in the region.

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