31 JU students fall sick after Victory Day meal at dorm

At least 31 female students of Begum Sufia Kamal Hall of Jahangirnagar University fell sick yesterday due to suspected food poisoning, after attending a feast served by the dormitory authorities marking Victory Day.   

Mahbuba Jannat, a doctor at JU medical centre, told The Daily Star, “A total of 31 students received treatment from us. They all came with complaints of stomach pain, and might have suffered from food poisoning.”

The students, however, said the number of sick students would be more than 70. They alleged that the food was sub-standard, blaming authorities’ negligence for the incident.

“We [four roommates] fell sick after eating the special meal at the dorm marking Victory Day,” said a student, wishing anonymity.

Hall Super Jahanara Gazi could not be reached over phone, despite repeated attempts. 

Contacted, Hall Provost Prof Md Motahar Hossain said, “The incident is regrettable. We will look into the matter and try to find the reason.”