A school’s decision to stop a student from eating food brought from home has sparked attention after the child was reportedly charged Rs 20 for a meal from the school canteen because the tiffin contained green methi.
The incident was shared on social media by a parent, who alleged that the school did not allow the student to eat the homemade food and instead directed the child to purchase food from the canteen.
‘Green methi not allowed’
According to the parent’s account, the child had carried a tiffin containing food prepared at home with green methi. The school reportedly told the student that the ingredient was not permitted under its food guidelines.
The student was allegedly not allowed to eat the food brought from home and was given an alternative meal from the school canteen. The parent said Rs 20 was charged for the replacement food. NDTV report
The incident has prompted discussion online about school food policies and the extent to which institutions should regulate meals brought by students from home.
Food rules raise questions
Schools may have dietary and food-safety guidelines for students, particularly where allergies or specific health concerns are involved. However, the reported incident has raised questions about whether restrictions on ordinary homemade ingredients should be clearly communicated to parents beforehand.
The parent’s account has circulated widely, though details about the school’s identity, its specific food policy and the reason for restricting green methi have not been independently established in the report.
The incident has nevertheless drawn attention to the everyday experiences of children at school and the importance of clear communication between parents and educational institutions.