Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Sep 23: A major food safety scare unfolded in North Delhi’s Jahangirpuri and surrounding areas on Tuesday, as over 200 residents reportedly fell ill after consuming dishes made with Kuttu Atta (buckwheat flour), commonly eaten during the Hindu fasting period of Navratri.

The affected individuals were rushed to Babu Jagjivan Ram Hospital (BJRM Hospital), with many suffering from symptoms including vomiting, dizziness, diarrhea, and severe discomfort. While no critical cases have been reported, hospital officials confirmed that the emergency ward had been overwhelmed with patients from neighborhoods including Mahendra Park, Samaypur, Bhalswa Dairy, Lal Bagh, and Swaroop Nagar.

Dr. Vishesh Yadav, chief medical officer at BJRM Hospital, said the situation was under control and all patients were in stable condition. “Around 150–200 patients have been treated for similar complaints. We haven’t had to admit anyone so far,” he added.

The Delhi Police were alerted around 6:10 A.M. and swiftly responded by dispatching teams to the affected areas. They have also coordinated with the Food Department to initiate an investigation into the source of the contaminated flour.

In an official statement, the police said, “Our personnel are working on-ground to spread awareness among vendors and residents. The Food Department has been informed and necessary actions are underway.”

Preliminary accounts suggest the contaminated Kuttu Atta may have been sourced from Adarsh Nagar market. Locals expressed deep concern, particularly since many had been observing fasts during Navratri — a period when buckwheat is widely consumed in religious meals.

“Five members of my family fell sick after eating buckwheat I bought from Adarsh Nagar,” said Krishanpal, a resident. “We had to rush them to the hospital. This should not be happening during such a sacred time.”

Another resident, Charanjeet, echoed the concern. “My nephew collapsed soon after breaking his fast. At the hospital, we found that we weren’t alone — dozens had already arrived with similar symptoms.”

A woman whose son was hospitalized said her mother became unwell after eating buckwheat-based food. “She was fasting, and collapsed minutes after eating. The doctors gave her two injections to stabilise her,” she shared.

Another local noted, “It’s Navratri, and almost every household here is observing the fast. After eating food made with buckwheat, people began falling ill — my wife and two children included. More cases are still coming in.”

Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation closely, and residents are being urged to avoid consuming Kuttu Atta until the source of contamination is identified.