At least 13 children fell ill after allegedly consuming soapberries (washnuts) while playing in a tea garden area in Assam’s Jorhat district, officials said on Sunday, raising fresh concerns over child safety and accidental poisoning. The incident took place at the Bor Soycotte Tea Estate in Titabar, where the children reportedly consumed the berries unaware of their toxic properties. They were initially taken to the local tea garden hospital after complaining of vomiting and abdominal pain, but were later shifted to Jorhat Medical College and Hospital (JMCH) as their condition worsened. Hospital authorities said that three children are undergoing treatment in the intensive care unit, while the remaining are stable and out of danger. Doctors confirmed that prompt medical intervention helped prevent further complications. District health officials have launched an inquiry and urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant about children consuming unknown fruits or berries. The incident comes close on the heels of the recent water contamination scare in Indore, once again highlighting the need for greater public awareness and preventive measures to protect children from environmental health hazards.
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