Tragic Watermelon Mishap: Fatal Poisoning in Chhattisgarh Village

A tragic incident unfolded in Chhattisgarh's Janjgir-Champa district as a 15-year-old boy died and three other children became ill after consuming watermelon, said officials on Monday. The incident took place in Ghurkot village where the children had gathered at their maternal uncle's house.

Akhilesh Dhivar, 15, from Podi Dalha village, was identified as the deceased while the affected children, who were admitted to the district hospital, include Shri Dhivar, 4, from Avarid village, Pintu Dhivar, 12, from Khatola, and Hitesh Dhivar, 13, from Kotgarh.

According to Dr. S Kujur, civil surgeon at the district hospital, the watermelon was reportedly cut in the morning and consumed hours later, leading to possible contamination. Forensic and food safety reports are awaited to confirm the cause of death and illness.

(With inputs from agencies.)