A festive atmosphere at the Kondamma Thalli Utsavams in Singupuram village near Srikakulam took a distressing turn this week as several devotees falling ill after consuming badam milk (a kind of flavoured milk) from a local vendor.
The incident, which occurred during the celebrations on April 1 and 2, triggered a swift medical and administrative response after attendees began reporting symptoms of food poisoning.
While initial rumors circulating in the district suggested that as many as 80 people had been affected, Srikakulam District Collector Swapnil Dinakar Pundkar has confirmed that exactly 18 cases have been officially reported to the Singupuram Primary Health Centre (PHC).
“Regarding the incident in Singupuram village, it is true that individuals consumed badam milk during the Kondamma Thalli Utsavams. However, the number of reported cases is significantly lower than the rumours being circulated, with only 18 cases officially reported to the Singupuram Primary Health Centre. All patients are currently stable, and there is nothing serious regarding the condition of any individual. The affected persons fall within the age of 15 and 40 years. The police have already taken three badam milk vendors into custody, and a thorough investigation is currently underway; we remain committed to taking strict legal action against the specific street vendor found responsible for this incident to ensure public safety,” Collector Mr. Pundkar told The Hindu on Saturday (April 4, 2026).
