Wedding feast turns tragic in Karbi Anglong: 35 fall ill in suspected food poisoning scare

A suspected case of food poisoning has triggered panic in Assam’s Karbi Anglong district after at least 35 people fell ill following a wedding feast in the Bokoliaghat area on March 23.

The incident took place at Bahoni Adarsha Timung village during a traditional Karbi wedding ceremony, locally known as “Adam Asar.” According to initial reports, guests who attended the event and consumed the meal—primarily rice-based dishes—began experiencing severe health complications shortly after eating.

Victims, including men, women, and children, reported symptoms such as vomiting, acute abdominal pain, and diarrhoea. As the situation escalated, local residents and family members acted promptly, rushing the affected individuals to the nearby 30-bed Bokoliaghat hospital.

Medical teams at the facility immediately began emergency treatment, with several patients placed under close observation due to the severity of their condition. While most are reported to be stable, a few cases remain critical, according to preliminary medical assessments.

Officials from the health department and district administration have reached the village and initiated an inquiry into the incident. Authorities are expected to collect food samples from the wedding site for laboratory testing to determine the exact source and cause of contamination.

The episode has sparked concern among residents in Bokoliaghat and adjoining areas, raising questions over food safety and hygiene practices during large community gatherings.

Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution and ensure proper food handling standards at such events, even as medical teams continue to monitor the condition of those affected.