Andhra Pradesh CM Orders Probe into Orphanage Tragedy

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has initiated a high-level investigation into the death of three children who consumed adulterated food at an orphanage in Anakapalli. The CM extended an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh to each victim's family and directed officials to ensure stringent action against those responsible.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Monday ordered a high-level enquiry into the death of three children at an orphanage in Anakapalli district, extending an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh each to their nearest kin or guardians.

Three children who ate adulterated food succumbed to health complications early on Monday, while other affected children are undergoing treatment at a hospital. Initially, it was reported that four children had died, but this was later revised to three.

''Naidu ordered a high-level enquiry into the death of three children due to adulterated food consumption. He declared an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh each to the victims' nearest kin or guardians,'' said the release, adding that more children are still being treated.

Expressing deep sorrow, the CM sought further details from Human Resource Development Minister Nara Lokesh and directed him to ensure better treatment for the affected children. Lokesh identified the deceased children as Joshua, Bhavani, and Shradda.

Lokesh also spoke with Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav and district collectors about the incident, directing officials to extend better treatment to the 17 students currently hospitalized.

The CM emphasized that stringent action would be taken against those responsible. Anakapalli district superintendent of police M Deepika Patil stated that negligence led to the deaths due to food poisoning.

Patil said the children consumed adulterated food donated to the hostel, falling sick after a dinner on Saturday. It was revealed later that the children were not orphans but had families, and they had been entrusted to the care of Kiran Kumar, who runs the hostel and a local church.

Police suspect leftover food from a local death ceremony caused severe health issues, resulting in three deaths. Out of 86 children, 30 are undergoing treatment, with one in critical condition.

(With inputs from agencies.)