Shillong, Mar 18: Tragedy struck again as another student from Meghalaya succumbed to alleged food poisoning in a Karnataka school, bringing the death toll to two.

The critically ill 12-year-old student was referred to Apollo Hospital, Mysuru, for treatment.

According to the state’s Education department, 22 other students from Meghalaya are in stable condition and are being closely monitored.

A state team, comprising officials from the Education Department, visited the site to assess the situation and met with the District Magistrate of Mandya District.

They also visited the hospital and the residential school where the incident occurred and will submit a report to the Education Department soon.

Three people, including the school owner and hostel warden, have been arrested in connection with the incident.

Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has announced a compensation of Rs. 3 lakh each to the next of kin of the two victims and assured that the state government will cover the medical expenses of all the affected children.

The incident occurred after 29 students from the unauthorized hostel of Gokul Educational Institution in T Kagepura village, Mandya district, Karnataka, consumed leftover food prepared for Holi celebrations, leading to severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.