Minister Jupally criticises BJP for politicising Gurukul school food poisoning

Hyderabad: Minister Jupalli Krishna Rao criticised BJP leaders for attempting to politicise recent health incidents in Gurukul and government schools. He said the party was distorting facts for electoral gain.

He visited Nagarkurnool General Hospital on Sunday, accompanied by MLA Dr Koochukulla Rajesh Reddy. The two met students from Uyyalawada Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Girls Gurukul, who were admitted after falling ill due to suspected food poisoning.

Hospital staff briefed the minister on the students’ condition. Later, he inspected the school’s dining facility and the surrounding area. Principal Lalitha facilitated a discussion between the minister and the affected students.

Minister recalls past school illnesses under the previous government

Speaking to reporters, Jupalli questioned whether former minister Harish Rao had forgotten the 1,023 student illness cases and multiple deaths reported in the last Bharatiya Rashtra Samiti (BRS) administration in Kasturba and Gurukul schools.

He blamed the past government for launching schools without proper infrastructure. Many campuses serve multiple mandals, which he said was contributing to operational problems and student discomfort.

He praised Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s push for education sector reform through increased funding and resource allocation.

Inquiry ordered, monthly inspections planned

Calling the incident unfortunate, the minister announced a full investigation. He said those responsible would be suspended.

He credited district medical teams and hospital staff for delivering timely care, helping students recover quickly.

Jupalli said his office would begin monthly inspections of Gurukul schools in the constituency. He directed officials to intensify monitoring of food preparation agencies and pledged swift action on pending school infrastructure issues.

Several Congress leaders joined the minister during the hospital and school visits.