Tragic Rise to 12: Deaths from Adulterated Milk in Andhra Pradesh
Synopsis
The number of fatalities linked to milk adulteration in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh has tragically reached 12. This alarming situation highlights the severe health risks posed by contaminated food products.
Key Takeaways
Death toll rises to 12 due to milk adulteration.
Victims suffered from acute renal failure.
Investigations revealed milk contamination with Ethylene Glycol .
Authorities have taken legal action against the supplier.
Public health and safety measures need urgent attention.
Amaravati, March 8 (NationPress) The number of fatalities linked to acute renal failure due to milk adulteration in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh, has tragically increased to 12 as of Sunday, following the death of a 73-year-old woman who was receiving treatment at a private healthcare facility.
Senapathi Ramalaxmi, residing in the Laalacheruvu area, was hospitalized on February 16 after consuming the contaminated milk.
Currently, nine individuals, including three infants, are in critical condition, also suffering from acute renal failure.
According to Kirthi Chekuri, the East Godavari District Collector, 20 individuals have developed acute renal failure after ingesting milk tainted with Ethylene Glycol.
On February 16, several patients were admitted to various hospitals due to urinary obstruction and kidney issues after consuming the adulterated milk.
The situation was first reported on February 22, when Tadi Krishnaveni, 76, passed away while being treated for anuria (the inability to urinate) at the Kakinada Government Hospital.
As relatives transported her body from Kakinada to Rajahmundry, they discovered that she and others were hospitalized with the same symptoms.
Following a report from the son of the deceased, authorities registered a case at the Rajahmundry 3 Town Police Station under Section 194 of BNSS.
During the investigation, blood samples from the victims, the adulterated milk and curd distributed to them, along with samples from the Varalakshmi Milk Centre, operated by Addala Ganeswara Rao in Narasapuram, were sent to forensic laboratories for analysis.
The inquiry revealed that Ganeswara Rao, 37, had been sourcing milk from 43 farmers near Narasapuram, storing it in a freezer at his residence, and later distributing it to residents of Chaudeswaranagar and Swaroopnagar.
Some customers had complained to Ganeswara Rao about the milk supplied on February 15, indicating it had a bitter taste. Similar complaints were received the following day.
Noticing that the freezer was leaking, Ganeswara Rao took it for repairs in Rajahmundry. It was fixed, and M-seal was applied to the leaking areas.
The forensic reports indicated that the cause of death for the victims was acute renal failure due to the ingestion of milk adulterated with toxic Ethylene Glycol.
Ganeswara Rao has since been arrested and placed in judicial custody.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the growing concern surrounding food safety in India. The adulteration of milk, a staple for many families, poses significant health risks, and swift action is required to prevent further tragedies.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the deaths in Rajahmundry?
The deaths were caused by acute renal failure due to milk adulterated with Ethylene Glycol.
How many people are currently affected?
Currently, nine individuals, including three infants, are battling for their lives due to acute renal failure.
What actions have been taken by authorities?
Authorities have registered a case, conducted investigations, and sent samples to forensic laboratories.
Who is responsible for the adulterated milk?
Addala Ganeswara Rao, who operated the Varalakshmi Milk Centre, has been arrested in connection with the case.
How can milk adulteration be prevented?
Public awareness and strict regulation of milk suppliers are essential to prevent such incidents.
