Soft drink past expiry date lands five youths in hospital

The condition of five youths worsened today after they consumed a soft drink at a grocery shop near the Khatu Shyam Dham temple, located opposite the Alamgarh bypass in Abohar.

According to reports, the youths, who had come to pay their respects at the temple, bought the soft drink at the shop. Upon inspection, it was found that the bottle was past its expiration date.

The victims were rushed to the Subdivision Civil Hospital Abohar for treatment. One of them was referred to Sriganganagar for further care. Mandeep Singh, a pharmacist at the hospital, stated that the youths were experiencing symptoms of vomiting and itching. They were administered injections and glucose for treatment.

The victims have been identified as Amandeep, Rajan, Arun, Shubham and Chander Kumar. They had visited the temple on the occasion of Ekadashi, and after offering their prayers, bought the expired soft drink. Their condition worsened shortly afterward, prompting their hospitalisation. Chander Kumar’s condition remained critical, leading his family to take him to Sriganganagar.

The families of the victims have called for action against the shopkeeper. Locals noted that the sale of expired soft drinks and other food items was common in the area. However, the Food Safety Department is often seen inspecting sweet shops only during the Diwali festival.