Punjab: Five youths admitted to hospital after consuming soft drinks after expiry date

Punjab: The condition of five youths deteriorated today after consuming soft drinks at a grocery shop near Khatu Shyam Dham temple located opposite Alamgarh bypass in Abohar. According to reports, the youths who had come to pay obeisance at the temple bought the soft drink from the shop. Upon investigation, it was found that the expiry date of the bottle had passed. The victims were taken to the Sub-Divisional Civil Hospital Abohar for treatment. One of them was referred to Sri Ganganagar for further care. Hospital pharmacist Mandeep Singh said that the youths were showing symptoms of vomiting and itching.

They were given injections and glucose for treatment. The victims have been identified as Amandeep, Rajan, Arun, Shubham and Chander Kumar. They had gone to the temple on the occasion of Ekadashi and after offering prayers, they bought expired soft drinks. Shortly after, their condition deteriorated and they were admitted to the hospital. Chander Kumar’s condition remains critical, due to which his family took him to Sri Ganganagar. The families of the victims have demanded action against the shopkeeper. Locals said that selling expired soft drinks and other food items is common in the area. However, the food safety department is often seen inspecting sweet shops only during the Diwali festival.