Dozens of people were hospitalised in Uttar Pradesh’s Ballia district after eating flatbreads made from finger millet flour during pre-fasting rituals. The Times of India put the number at 66, while another report said 49 people fell ill, including three women in critical condition.

The incident happened on Saturday in Aschaura and Chokan villages. Residents ate bati and roti made from madua, or ragi, flour ahead of the annual Jyutiya fast, in which women fast for their children’s well-being. Soon after, people reported vomiting, nausea, severe stomach cramps and dizziness.

Patients were rushed to the Bansdih primary health centre, the Ballia district hospital and a private clinic in Sahatwar. District Magistrate Gyanendra Singh, Superintendent of Police Omveer Singh and Chief Medical Officer Dr A. N. Rai visited the villages and hospitals.

Officials said the affected families bought the flour from a single local merchant. Food safety teams have collected samples for lab testing and sealed the supply pending results.