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Ludhiana: Over 50 devotees fell ill after consuming prasad at a gurdwara in Ludhiana on Makar Sankranti, prompting a health and police investigation on Tuesday. The incident was reported from the Ayali Kalan (Ayali Khurd) area, where a langar had been organised at a local Gurdwara Sahib to mark the festival. Soon after consuming the prasad, devotees complained of vomiting, loose motions and stomach discomfort, following which they were rushed to nearby hospitals.

Health department officials said preliminary suspicion points to the halwa served as prasad, though samples have been collected and sent for examination to ascertain the exact cause.“Once the doctors give us a clear medical assessment, we will be in a position to comment further. However, those responsible will not be spared,” the SHO concerned said, adding that all patients are currently stable.

The affected devotees included elderly persons, women and children. One of the patients, Manjit Kaur, said she had taken the prasad home, and everyone who consumed it later fell ill, strengthening suspicion around food contamination. Police and health authorities said further action would be taken after laboratory reports are received.