One person has died and at least 17 others have fallen seriously ill after consuming food at a wedding ceremony in Dhamoirhat upazila of Naogaon. The incident has caused widespread concern among local residents.
The incident occurred on Sunday night (23 November) in Agradwigun village of the upazila. The deceased was identified as Jamal Hossain, 38, son of Dalil Uddin of the same village. According to local sources, Jamal was staying at the bride’s father’s house for the wedding ceremony and had taken part in the meal along with other guests.
Locals said that food was arranged for nearly 300 guests at the wedding of Amirul Islam’s daughter. Shortly after eating, many guests developed severe abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhoea. Several people were reportedly seen rushing to toilets simultaneously, indicating a serious outbreak of illness. As the condition of the affected guests worsened, they were taken to Patnitala উপজেলা Health Complex on Monday morning (24 November).
Jamal Hossain’s condition became critical while undergoing treatment, prompting doctors to refer him to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital. However, he died on the way before reaching Rajshahi. Among the other patients, several are still undergoing treatment, with some reported to be in a serious condition.
Union Parishad Chairman Ismail Hossain Mostak said it was not yet confirmed whether the food was prepared at the wedding house or brought from a hotel, and investigations are needed to determine the source of contamination.
Patnitala Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer Dr Khalid Saifullah said 18 patients were admitted after eating pulao, and the incident appeared to be a case of food poisoning.
Dhamoirhat Police Station Officer-in-Charge Imam Zafar said no formal complaint has been lodged so far, but police have visited the site and are monitoring the situation.
GLIVE/TSN