Rajouri Deaths: 16 Dead in 45 Days Due to Mysterious Illness

As many as 16 people have died within 45 days due to a mysterious illness in Budhal village of Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir. The situation has raised concerns among residents and authorities, prompting the government to launch an urgent investigation.

On Thursday, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah convened a high-level meeting, directing health and police officials to expedite the probe and identify the cause of the deaths. "The unexplained nature of these deaths is deeply troubling. We will leave no stone unturned to uncover the root cause and ensure the safety of our people," the Chief Minister said.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has also intervened, forming an inter-ministerial team to investigate the crisis. Experts from central ministries, including Health, Agriculture, and Water Resources, are set to visit the affected area on Sunday.

Timeline of Incidents

The first incident occurred on December 7, 2024, when a family of seven fell ill after a community meal, resulting in five fatalities. Similar incidents followed on December 12 and January 12, with nine and ten individuals affected, respectively. This week, 10-year-old Zabeena Kouser succumbed, while her sister remains in critical condition.

Health teams have surveyed over 3,000 residents and conducted extensive testing of food, water, and environmental samples. However, investigations by institutes like ICMR, DRDO, and PGIMER-Chandigarh have found no bacterial or viral agents. Postmortem reports revealed the presence of neurotoxins in the victims' bodies.

What Are Neurotoxins?

Neurotoxins are harmful substances that damage the nervous system, leading to symptoms like brain swelling, paralysis, or even death. These toxins can come from natural sources, such as plants and bacteria, or synthetic chemicals.

Government Response

Authorities have sealed three houses of the affected families and relocated 21 relatives to government accommodations for close monitoring. Ambulances and emergency medical teams are stationed in the area to address any new cases promptly.

The tragedy has left the local community in grief. Mohammad Aslam, who lost five children and two relatives, has created a new graveyard on his farmland. His surviving daughter remains in critical condition, adding to the village's distress.

Political Reactions

Local leaders, including BJP’s Ravinder Raina and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, have visited the affected families, pledging support and swift action. "The loss of precious lives has shattered the region," Raina said.