New Delhi: At least 200 people in Delhi have fallen ill after consuming buckwheat flour, locally known as ‘Kuttu Atta’, during the ongoing Navaratri festival. Those affected are reporting symptoms including vomiting and abdominal pain, and are currently receiving treatment at Babu Jagjivan Ram Hospital (BJRM).
The cases have been reported across multiple areas in Northwest Delhi, including Jahangirpuri, Mahendra Park, Samaypur, Bhalswa Dairy, Lal Bagh, and Swaroop Nagar. Authorities have indicated that the flour was not sourced from a single supplier, raising concerns about its wider circulation in the city.
Delhi Police, as reported by news agency ANI, confirmed that at 6:10 AM on Tuesday, they received information regarding widespread uneasiness after consumption of Kuttu Atta.
Delhi | On September 23, at 6.10 am, information was received at PS Jahangirpuri regarding a large number of people reporting uneasiness after consuming Kuttu Atta.
Upon enquiry at BJRM Hospital, Dr Vishesh Yadav, CMO, informed that around 150–200 persons from areas including…
— ANI (@ANI) September 23, 2025
Large number of patients rushed to emergency wards
Early on Tuesday morning, police at Jahangirpuri received reports of a large number of residents feeling unwell after consuming the flour. Medical officials at BJRM Hospital confirmed that approximately 150 to 200 patients from the affected localities had visited the emergency ward with complaints of vomiting and stomach pain.
In response, local authorities have mobilised shopkeepers, vendors, and residents to raise awareness through community outreach and public announcements. The Food Department has also been informed and is expected to initiate further action. Police have opened an investigation into the matter, although no formal complaints have yet been filed.
Incident collides with Navratri fasts
The incident coincides with Shardiya Navratri, one of India’s most widely observed Hindu festivals. Spanning nine days, the festival honours Goddess Durga and her nine divine forms, the Navdurga, with devotees observing fasting and strict dietary restrictions. During this period, grains such as wheat, rice, and lentils are avoided, and vrat-friendly alternatives like buckwheat and water chestnut flours are commonly used in dishes such as puris, pakoras, and rotis.