16 deaths due to adulterated milk spark outrage
The adulterated milk case that surfaced in Rajahmundry (Rajamahendravaram) has created widespread concern across Andhra Pradesh. In a tragic incident reported in February, 16 people allegedly died after consuming contaminated milk. Victim families continue to demand justice and strict action against those responsible.
Victims meet YS Jagan at YSRCP office in Tadepalli
In this context, the affected families met former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy at the YSRCP office in Tadepalli and shared their grievances. They urged the government to ensure justice and proper compensation.
Former MP Margani Bharat also spoke to the media after the meeting, demanding strict action against the adulterated milk mafia. He alleged that such a large-scale tragedy involving 16 deaths due to adulterated milk is unprecedented in India’s history.
Criticism of government response
Margani Bharat criticized Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and the state Health Minister for not visiting or consoling the victims’ families. He claimed that despite the severity of the incident, there has been no direct response from top officials.
He further stated that Health Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu and the district Collector had initially assured better medical care, including airlifting patients if needed. However, he alleged that one of the victims, Ruhania, was being discharged before full recovery, which he called deeply concerning.
Medical expenses and compensation demands
According to the victims’ families, they have already spent around ₹4 lakh on medical treatment without any reimbursement from the government so far. Margani Bharat demanded that the announced compensation of ₹10 lakh for deceased families be doubled.
He also called for written assurance from the government regarding long-term health support for survivors such as Ruhania and Ritwik, in case of future complications.
Allegations of negligence and lack of official report
Bharat also alleged that no official report has yet been released on the toxic substances mixed in the milk. He accused the government of attempting to avoid responsibility and failing to provide transparency in the investigation.
Parents of victims share their suffering
Ritwik’s father, Rakesh, stated that while initial treatment in the hospital was proper, later support from authorities was lacking. He said they spent around ₹2–3 lakh on treatment and received no clear response from local officials or the MLA regarding insurance or financial aid.
Ruhania’s father also reported that treatment began on February 16 and has already cost between ₹3.5 lakh and ₹5.5 lakh. He said the child’s kidney tubes have not fully recovered, yet there is pressure to discharge her.
He further added that the child’s weight has dropped drastically from 9 kg to 4.5 kg, raising serious concerns about her health condition.
Difficult access to medical care
Families also expressed difficulty in traveling to hospitals in Kakinada and Vijayawada for continued treatment, stating that daily travel is not feasible due to financial and health constraints.
Legal action and human rights intervention
Margani Bharat said he has already written to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the Child Rights Commission regarding the issue. He demanded strict legal action against those involved in endangering public health through adulterated milk.
Call for strict action and accountability
He urged the government to take immediate action against those responsible and ensure justice for the affected families. The incident has once again highlighted the urgent need for stronger food safety enforcement and stricter monitoring systems in the state.
