2 women die, 6 others critical after consuming ‘mango kernel’ in Odisha

Exposing the prevalence of extreme poverty in rural Odisha, two women died after allegedly eating ‘mango kernel’. The condition of six others, who had consumed kernel, is stated to be critical.

The incident has been reported from Mandipanka village under Daringbadi block in Odisha’s Kandhamal district. Even as the government provides ration, tribals continue to consume mango kernel and bamboo flowers.

According to sources, the women complained of stomach ache and uneasiness after consuming mango kernel. They were first admitted to the local Godapur Community Health Centre (CHC) and then shifted to Berhampur-based MKCG Medical College and Hospital (MKCG) after their condition worsened.

However, one of them died while undergoing treatment. Similarly, another young girl died mid-way while being transferred to MKCG. While doctors are yet to confirm the reason of the death of the women, locals suspect food poisoning after consuming mango kernel.

Even though the people here are covered under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) and are given rice as per law, they continue to consume mango kernel and bamboo flowers. Due to lack of resources to buy vegetables and other essential commodities to prepare curry every day, they reportedly depend on different types of grasses, forest mushrooms and pulses.