A disturbing incident has occurred in the Ballia district of Uttar Pradesh related to the traditional 'Jitiya' fast (Jiyutputrika), which is observed for the longevity and well-being of a son. The day before the fast, as part of the 'nahai-khai' tradition (bathing and eating), approximately 40-50 women and young children from two or three villages became victims of food poisoning after consuming bread made from made ka flour (ragi).
After the deterioration of the health of all affected individuals, they were immediately transported to the Ballia district hospital for treatment, where medical assistance continues to be provided.
The affected people mainly reside in the villages of Aschaura, Chokan, and Chata, located in the Bansidih district. According to the Jitiya tradition, it is customary to consume bread made from made ka flour as an offering before the start of the fast.
On Wednesday and Thursday, the women prepared and ate the made ka flour bread purchased from a local shop, and also gave it to the children. Soon after eating, the women and children developed symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and dizziness. The condition of dozens of people soon worsened, causing panic in the region.
Upon receiving information about the incident, the health department and local administration entered a state of high alert. Sick women and children were urgently taken to the district hospital. Given the seriousness of the situation, medical teams and ambulances were dispatched to the affected villages to check on the condition of other residents.
Statement by District Magistrate Gyanendra Singh
Responding to the situation, the head of the Ballia district, Gyanendra Singh, reported that it was learned that some residents of the villages of Chata and surrounding areas consumed made ka flour in accordance with the traditions of the Jitiya fast, which led to food poisoning. He specified that about 25 women and several children are currently in the district hospital receiving proper treatment, and the situation is under control. An ambulance and medical team were also sent to the village. A team from the Food Safety Department has been sent to the shop where the flour was purchased to take samples. He emphasized that if violations are found, extremely strict legal measures will be taken against the guilty sellers and food suppliers.