Mysuru: Mysuru District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) N.T. Yogesh has issued a strict directive prohibiting external food in Child Care Institutions (CCIs) operating under the Care and Protection Act.

This measure follows the tragic incident at a school hostel in Malavalli, where two children died and 30 others fell ill after consuming food during Holi celebrations.

In response, the Mysuru District Administration has taken swift precautionary steps. DCPO Yogesh issued a formal written order, instructing all 28 private (NGOs) and 3 Government-run CCIs in the district not to serve food prepared outside.

The order mandates strict cleanliness in kitchens and careful supervision during meal preparation. It also specifies that only high-quality food and clean water must be provided to children in hostels.

Yogesh warned that failure to comply will lead to disciplinary action under the law. To ensure adherence, hostels will be inspected in coordination with Child Welfare Committee (CWC) officials.

Currently, Mysuru district has 31 CCIs housing 320 children. With examinations now                          concluded, some children have returned home to their parents, Yogesh added.