Mongla, Nov 08, (V7N) – At least 40 people, including men, women, and children, have fallen ill after consuming food at the New Paradise Hotel and Restaurant in Mongla. Of these, 14-15 individuals have been hospitalized, while others either received outpatient treatment or are taking medication at home.
 
According to hospital reports, the affected individuals consumed grilled food and naan (flatbread) from the restaurant on Tuesday and Wednesday. Some had visited the restaurant with their families, while others dined with friends. Shortly after consuming the food, many began to feel unwell. Over the course of two days, 22 people were admitted to the local health complex. Among them, 6-7 individuals were discharged after receiving treatment, while the remaining 14-15 are still hospitalized. In addition, 17-18 others sought treatment at private clinics in the town. One family alone had seven members affected, and five friends who ate together also fell ill.
 
One of the hospitalized patients, Rahmatullah, reported that seven members of his family became sick after eating grilled food and naan from the New Paradise Hotel. They were all admitted to the hospital and have been receiving treatment for the past two days. Another patient, Zahirul Islam, explained that he and four of his friends fell ill after eating the same food. They were admitted to the hospital together and are currently under care.
 
Dr. Afsana Naima, the Residential Medical Officer at the Upazila Health Complex, confirmed that the illness was caused by food poisoning. “Several patients came to the hospital after eating food from a specific restaurant. While some were treated and discharged, 14-15 people remain hospitalized,” she said.
 
The owner of New Paradise Hotel and Restaurant, Khorshed Alam, dismissed the incident, claiming it was part of a conspiracy by rivals. However, after being summoned to the health complex on Thursday, he expressed regret over the incident. "We have collected food samples from the restaurant for further investigation," said Basudev Kumar Biswas, the Upazila Sanitary Inspector.
 
Upazila Executive Officer Afia Sharmin stated that if any formal complaints are received from the affected individuals, legal action will be taken against the hotel.
 
The incident has raised concerns over food safety at local eateries, and authorities are investigating the source of contamination.
 
END/AHS/SMA/