Overview

• A division bench of Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Bibhu Datta Guru directed payment of Rs 25,000 to each affected student within one month of the August 17 order.
• The court took suo motu cognisance after a July 28 incident at Government Middle School, Lachchhanpur, where food soiled by a stray dog was served despite warnings to the self-help group.
• The state informed the court that the Jai Laxmi self-help group was removed and several school officials were suspended, with new hygiene and safety directions issued for the mid-day meal scheme.
• A report from the Chief Medical and Health Officer said all 84 children received three anti-rabies vaccine doses, were found medically fit, and remain under observation by local health personnel.
• Some media reports alleged the vaccinations were given without parental consent, a claim not reflected in the court’s core finding of state negligence leading to compensation.