Guwahati: Authorities in Karnataka have shut down Gokula Vidyasamsthe school in Mandya district, where two students from Meghalaya died of food poisoning.

The school's closure comes after the death of 12-year-old Namewantei Marwein, who passed away at Mysore's Apollo Hospital on Tuesday, and 13-year-old Khrehlang Khongtani, who died on March 16.

The incident has sparked widespread concern, with Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma expressing his condolences to the families of the deceased students. The state government has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 3 lakh to the next of kin and will cover the medical expenses of the ailing students.

Three people, including the school's owner and hostel warden, have been arrested in connection with the incident. A team from Meghalaya, consisting of education department officials, has visited the school and met with the Mandya district magistrate to take stock of the situation.

The Meghalaya State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MSCPCR) has sought a report from its Karnataka counterpart on the incident. MSCPCR chairperson Agatha K Sangma stated that they are awaiting a formal reply from Karnataka.

Twenty-two students from Meghalaya, who were also affected by food poisoning, are currently in stable condition and being closely monitored. The incident has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of students in residential schools, with Cabinet Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh stating the importance of parents being aware of the credibility and management of institutions before sending their children to unknown institutions.