Around 50 people of Kuchiyatuli village in Sisai block fell ill due to food poisoning on Saturday night after having dinner at a marriage function in Gumla district.

After consuming the meal in the evening, they complained of vomiting, cramps and an upset stomach at around 10.30 pm on Saturday. Three women and four children have been admitted to Gumla district hospital while the others are under observation at Sisai block hospital.

Gumla civil surgeon Dr S N Jha said the victims fell ill after consuming rice and chicken at the wedding. “The local health centre received 15 cases initially. The cases doubled within an hour,” he said, the symptoms indicated a clear case of food poisoning. A team of medical experts were were sent to the village on Sunday morning to monitor the victims’ health . However, contaminated water could also be a reason why the villagers fell ill.