“Around 600 students attended the camp at the college. Of them, around 70 reported illnesses suspected to be caused by food poisoning. We visited the spot and collected samples of the food and water served at the college. So far, the condition of the students is satisfactory. No complications have been reported,” said a health official from Thrikkakara Municipality.

Following the mass hospital admissions, parents and residents of the area held protests at the college.

“The parents of the students and a few residents of the area arrived at the college after learning about the incident. They have been protesting in front of the college. The camp was cancelled, and the students were sent back home,” said an official from Thrikkakara Municipality.