Mid-Day Meal Scandal in Maihar: Children Served on Torn Papers, Principal Faces Suspension

Maihar, Madhya Pradesh: A disturbing incident on Republic Day in Maihar district has triggered outrage across Madhya Pradesh. At Bhatingwa Government High School, students were reportedly served mid-day meals—halwa and puri—on torn pages of old notebooks and exercise books instead of proper plates or thalis. The incident was captured on video, which quickly went viral, sparking widespread condemnation.

In response, Maihar Collector Rani Batad has taken strict action. The suspension proposal of Sunil Kumar Tripathi, in-charge principal of the school, has been sent to the Rewa Commissioner. Additionally, contract employee Pradeep Singh from the Block Resource Centre (BRC) has been ordered a one-month salary deduction. The District Panchayat’s mid-day meal officer and the DPC have been issued “show cause” notices seeking explanations for the lapse.

The video showed children sitting on the floor while eating from ink-stained torn pages, raising serious health concerns. Experts warned that ink from printed pages can contain lead and other harmful chemicals, which could pose long-term health risks when ingested with hot food.

The incident has also sparked political criticism. Madhya Pradesh Congress President Jitu Patwari slammed the state government, stating that while officials indulge in luxuries like rabri and malai, children’s meals fall victim to corruption. The Congress official handle further remarked that serving food on torn notebook pages is an insult not only to the children but also to the ideals of education and Vidyadayini Devi, highlighting the government’s negligence.

The administration has promised a thorough review of mid-day meal protocols to prevent such incidents in the future.