MUSCAT : Parents have raised complaints against Indian School Darsait after students were allegedly served spoiled food during a school picnic, leaving several children unwell and prompting concerns over food safety and supervision.

The picnic, organised on January 13 at Rusayl Park, involved students from Classes III to V. Each student was charged RO 3.5 to cover transportation and meals.

According to parents, food served to the children during the journey emitted a foul smell and appeared unfit for consumption. While many students refused to eat it, some who did reportedly complained of stomach discomfort and illness. Parents also alleged that no alternative food was provided despite complaints from the children.

Several parents said they only became aware of the issue after their children returned home late in the evening feeling unwell, raising questions over why the trip continued without corrective action once the problem was identified.

School admits lapse, blames vendor

In an official statement, the school acknowledged the incident and expressed regret over the distress caused to students and parents. Principal Amar Srivastava said an immediate preliminary investigation found that the lapse occurred on the part of the external vendor responsible for preparing and transporting the food.

According to the school, the food was prepared and packed early in the morning and transported to the venue by the vendor. However, lapses during handling and transportation led to a deterioration in quality in certain instances, which the principal described as a serious violation of safety expectations.

The school said decisive action has been taken, including permanently blacklisting the food distributor and seeking a formal explanation. The vendor will not be allowed to participate in any future school programmes, and further action, including legal measures, may be initiated if required.

Full refund announced

In a subsequent communication to parents, the school said that while the picnic was conducted as planned, certain aspects of the arrangements did not meet its internal standards and expectations.

“In keeping with our commitment to student well-being and parent trust, the School Management Committee has decided to refund the full picnic amount of RO 3.500,” the statement said.

The refund process will begin from the next working day, Monday, January 19, 2026, the school added.

Preventive measures

To prevent a recurrence, the school said it is implementing stricter safeguards with immediate effect. These include mandatory inspection and tasting of all food before distribution at school events, and the formation of a designated staff committee to oversee food quality, hygiene, storage and safety compliance.

The school reiterated that student safety and hygiene would not be compromised and apologised for the inconvenience and concern caused to parents.

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