Health at risk? Assam school faces heat over mid-day meal and water crisis

Serious allegations of negligence and irregularities have surfaced at Alok Primary School in Khoomtai under the Sonari Education Block of Charaideo district, raising concerns over the health and welfare of students.

The allegations have been levelled against the school's head teacher, Meera Bhumij, who is accused of depriving students of their entitled mid-day meal and allowing food to be prepared using contaminated water.

According to reports, students of the school were not served mid-day meals on Monday. Although the school cook reportedly arrived on time and was prepared to carry out her duties, the cooking of meals was allegedly halted following instructions from the head teacher.

The issue has sparked concern among parents and local residents, who claim that the welfare of young students is being compromised.

Adding to the controversy are allegations regarding the quality of drinking water available at the school. Sources said the water used for cooking is muddy and yellowish in colour. While the school reportedly has a water filtration system, it is currently non-functional, forcing the institution to rely on untreated water.

The use of such water for preparing meals for children has triggered strong reactions from concerned citizens and members of the local community.

Responding to the allegations, head teacher Meera Bhumij told the media that the decision to suspend the preparation of mid-day meals was taken with the consent of staff members. She claimed that students usually leave for home immediately after examinations, resulting in food being wasted.

Bhumij also acknowledged the water-related issues at the school but defended the use of the available water for cooking purposes.

The allegations have raised questions about the implementation of the Mid-Day Meal Scheme and the maintenance of basic hygiene standards in government-run schools. Local residents have called upon the education department to conduct an inquiry into the matter and take appropriate action if any lapses are found.