The incident occurred in Ghatal city, West Bengal, on 23/11, Samaa TV reported. The six victims, including two children, are receiving intensive treatment at SSKM Hospital in Kolkata, having been transferred from a local medical facility. Doctors describe their condition as very serious due to deep internal organ damage.

Illustrative photo: Daily Meal

Initial investigations revealed that the Sanyasi family, who are copper and silver artisans, regularly stored acid in their home. On the day of the incident, a visiting relative confused the container of chemicals with clean water, using it to wash rice and cook curry for the entire family.

Immediately after the meal, the six family members experienced severe abdominal pain and continuous vomiting. The family promptly took the victims to Ghatal Hospital. There, medical staff determined they suffered from severe acid poisoning, which was beyond the local facility's capacity, necessitating an emergency transfer to Kolkata.

Authorities are examining the scene and interviewing witnesses. While initial findings suggest an accidental domestic incident due to carelessness, police are broadening their investigation to determine if there was any intentional harm targeting the Sanyasi family.

The incident prompted local authorities to issue an urgent warning about chemical safety in residential areas. Officials are reviewing regulations for storing hazardous materials in households, especially those involved in traditional crafts that use chemicals, to prevent similar accidents.

According to the US National Library of Medicine, ingesting acid can lead to gastric perforation and massive internal bleeding. Survivors often suffer severe long-term consequences, such as permanent esophageal strictures. The MSD Manual reports that approximately 80% of corrosive substance ingestions worldwide are accidental among young children, while adult cases typically involve suicide attempts or occupational accidents with highly concentrated chemicals.

Binh Minh (According to Samaa TV, India Today)