Kendrapara, May 16: In a distressing incident in Kupukuni village under Pattamundai Police Station limits, Kendrapara after five members of a family, including two children, fell critically ill after reportedly consuming watermelon.

According to sources, shortly after eating the fruit, the family began experiencing severe stomach pain, diarrhoea, and dizziness, eventually collapsing. The victims were immediately admitted to the district headquarters hospital for urgent treatment.

As their condition worsened, Babruvahan Senapati and 13-year-old Swadhin Senapati were transferred to SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack, in critical condition. Tragically, Swadhin succumbed to the illness during treatment.

The incident has sparked concern in the locality. Authorities have yet to confirm the exact cause behind the suspected food poisoning, and investigations are underway to determine whether the watermelon was contaminated or if other factors contributed to the family’s illness.

Officials have urged residents to exercise caution while consuming food and report any unusual symptoms immediately.