Insects found in hospital food at ESIC hospital in Ahmedabad, probe ordered

A case of alleged negligence has surfaced at the 320-bed ESIC-run General Hospital in Ahmedabad’s Bapunagar area after caterpillar-like insects were found in food served to patients, triggering outrage among inmates and their relatives.

On Tuesday evening, in the women’s medical ward, around 42 patients were served khichdi. Several patients reportedly found insects in the food, prompting panic and anger, with many refusing to eat the meal.

According to hospital sources, affected patients raised objections after noticing the contaminated food. The issue escalated when local representatives were informed.

Senior Councillor Iqbal Sheikh visited the hospital following complaints and raised the matter with the Chief Medical Officer and the night superintendent, seeking immediate action.

Hospital authorities subsequently arranged for fresh food, which was prepared and served later in the night.

Preliminary findings suggest that food services at the hospital are outsourced to a contractor, while kitchen operations are overseen by designated personnel. Allegations have also been made regarding possible lapses in supervision.

A formal complaint has been submitted to senior authorities, including Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, seeking a thorough inquiry into the incident.