MAIMANA - More than 80 schoolgirls and their three teachers mysteriously fell ill and were hospitalized in northern Faryab province on Wednesday, when the world celebrated the women’s day.
The suspected poison attack took place in Qurghan district, the town’s administrative head, Eng. Akbar, told Pajhwok Afghan News.
The affected students and teachers of the Sayed Barkatullah girls’ school were rushed to the hospital in Aandkhui district of neighboring Jawzjan province and they were in stable condition.
“But it is not clear who did this. The relevant organs have started their investigations”.
Faryab education director Ghulam Sakhi said 81 students and teachers had been hospitalized. He said seven students who were in critical condition were shifted to the civil hospital in Shiberghan, Jawzjan’s capital, for better treatment.

Zalmi Azizi, a civil society activist, said the government’s definition of the enemy remained vague. “Poisoning girls on March 8 reflects the hate of militants for innocent people, especially for females,” he added. (Pajhwok)