RAJOURI, Jan 15: The unexplained deaths of over a dozen people in Badhaal village, Rajouri, have sparked concern, but Health Minister Sakeena Masood has assured the public that there is no connection to any disease or virus. Extensive testing conducted both within Jammu and Kashmir and at national medical institutions has returned negative results for any infections.
The fatalities, which began on December 7 and have now claimed 13 lives, including 11 children from three related families, have raised alarm. However, all tests—including those from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and Defence Research and Development Establishment (DRDE)—show no signs of an epidemic.
The health department acted swiftly, screening 3,500 villagers through a door-to-door campaign. Despite these efforts, no disease, virus, or contamination was found in water and food sources, Masood confirmed.
“The results leave no room for doubt that this is not a disease outbreak. If a contagious illness had been involved, it would have spread beyond the affected families,” Masood said.
While the cause of the deaths remains a mystery, the police and district authorities are conducting a thorough investigation. “We are determined to uncover the truth, and I am confident that the investigation will soon provide clarity,” the minister added.
Reports have suggested the presence of neurotoxins in some of the deceased’s samples. However, Masood emphasized that conclusions will only be drawn once all forensic tests are complete.
“I offer my heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and assure them that the government will provide full support. We are committed to uncovering the truth behind these tragic deaths,” she said.
As the investigation continues, the community waits for answers to this unsettling mystery.
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