JAMMU: Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have accelerated investigations into the unexplained deaths of 16 individuals in Badhaal village, Kotranka subdivision, over the past 45 days. Multiple police teams, operating under a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by SP Operations Kandi, are working diligently to uncover the cause of these fatalities.
As part of the investigation, dozens of locals have been interrogated, and efforts are being focused on diverse areas, including witness statements, technical assessments, interactions with victims’ families, and consultations with medical experts. Officials confirmed that the inquiry is being pursued from all possible angles.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, during his visit to Badhaal today, expressed confidence in the professionalism of the police teams and assured that the investigation would conclude promptly. Earlier, Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat reviewed the progress during a high-level meeting in Sunderbani, accompanied by ADGP Jammu and other senior officers, including DIG Rajouri-Poonch and SSP Rajouri.
Simultaneously, a team from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has intensified its field inquiry in the affected village. Comprising epidemiology and disease control experts, the team is analyzing potential links between the cases and conducting in-depth studies. This is the second NCDC team dispatched to the region following fresh deaths reported since January 12, when seven members of a single family succumbed to similar symptoms.
Officials revealed that the NCDC team has been engaging with residents, particularly victims’ families, to collect comprehensive data. The findings are expected to aid in identifying patterns and implementing preventive measures to halt further tragedies.
A team of eight doctors from Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri also visited the village to conduct medical check-ups on surviving family members and collect samples. Principal of GMC Rajouri, Dr Amarjeet Singh Bhatia, stated that several victims arrived at hospitals in critical condition, making it challenging to save them. Samples collected during these examinations are being analyzed, and results are anticipated within two days.
Dr. Bhatia further noted that preliminary findings point to neurotoxins as the likely cause of the fatalities. These toxins, which disrupt brain function and can lead to respiratory and cardiac failure, are being analyzed by top toxicology labs across the country. Autopsy reports from GMC Jammu are also being prepared to aid the legal investigation.
