Report by Rashmi r Parida; Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Shri Naveen Patnaik today ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident of deaths in Khurdha and Cuttack districts. A retired High Court Judge will head the Inquiry Commission. Chief Minister also ordered exemplary action against those responsible for the tragic incident.

This evening, Chief Minister Shri Naveen Patnaik reviewed the situation in a high level meeting at Secretariat. The Chief Minister directed that all the affected persons be provided with best possible treatment free of cost.

It was revealed in the meeting that a Special Ward has been opened at SCB Medical College, Cuttack for treatment of the affected persons. Doctors, Nurses and other Paramedical staff have been engaged to provide medical care. Besides, 10 Ambulances/Mobile Vans have been pressed into service in the affected areas to identify and bring affected persons to SCB Medical College for proper treatment.

Two cases have been registered in Cuttack Sadar and Balianta Police Station. Two special squads have also been constituted to nab the culprits. Seven persons have been arrested so far over the incidents.

Preliminary investigation suggests that two medicines, namely EPEE CARM and CONCENTRATED CINNAMON have caused these unfortunate incidents. Raids are being conducted on the distribution, sale and manufacture of these contaminated medicines. People are advised not to consume these two medicines.

Among others, the meeting was attended by Minister, Excise Shri A.U. Singh Deo, Chief Secretary Shri Bijay Kumar Patnaik, Home Secretary, D.G.P., Excise Commissioner and Commissioner of Police.