The Commission has taken cognizance of a serious incident in Assam in which more than 1000 young children, all students, fell ill due to food poisoning.

According to the complaint received by the Commission, the incident had occurred on 9 August 2001 in Barpeta district of Assam where the students had been asked to participate in a statewide peace march organized by the Assam Government. Young children were taken in a long procession during the oppressive mid-day heat and were provided soaked gram as refreshment. The gram, which was allegedly meant to be used as seeds, was contaminated with insecticides. Two of the children died on 12 August 2001 and one 8-year-old girl died on 13 August 2001.

The Commission took the view that the incident was very serious and that immediate action was needed to ensure proper treatment to all the affected children. Thus, on 16 August 2001, it issued a notice to the Chief Secretary, Assam asking for a detailed report within one week. The Chief Secretary was also directed to take prompt measures to ensure proper medical treatment to each of the affected children and to report on the action taken.

In view of the urgency and seriousness of the situation, the Commission directed its Director General (Investigation) Shri Y.N. Srivastava, to go to Guwahati and “collect all facts on the spot” for an early report. The DG (I) was also asked to “monitor the matter and take such action as is considered necessary for the proper care of the children”. For this, he was to be in regular touch with the Chief Secretary, Assam. The DG (I) and DIG visited Assam from 17 – 19 August 2001 and have since submitted their report.