SRINAGAR: The Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, Lucknow, has detected “elevated cadmium levels” in several samples collected from individuals impacted by the mysterious illness in Badhaal, Rajouri. While cadmium, a toxic metal, has been identified in victims’ bodies, it has not been conclusively linked to the deaths and illnesses of over 32 residents.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh confirmed on Friday that cadmium was present in the remains of those who succumbed to the illness. The metal was also found in the samples of Aijaz Ahmed, currently undergoing treatment at PGI Chandigarh.
Cadmium, a harmful neurotoxin, can cause severe health problems. Tragically, 17 people, including 14 children, have lost their lives in the village. Meanwhile, three patients are being treated at SMGS and GMC hospitals in Jammu, and over 200 individuals who had close contact with victims have been placed in quarantine under strict observation.
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At Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri, Epidemiologist Dr. Syed Shuja Qadri noted, “Cadmium has been identified in high concentrations in 10 affected individuals. However, the symptoms observed in victims do not align with typical cadmium poisoning, leaving medical experts perplexed.”
In addition to cadmium, traces of aldicarb, a carbamate pesticide, and sulfone compounds have also been identified in some samples. Aldicarb disrupts nerve function by inhibiting cholinesterase activity, but its clinical profile does not correspond to the victims’ symptoms.
Dr. Qadri stated that current investigations point to a neurotoxin as the likely cause, potentially triggering Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES). The suspected exposure route is ingestion, but it remains uncertain whether the toxin was consumed continuously or intermittently.
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“Based on available evidence, we suspect a neurotoxin introduced through food or water. However, we cannot confirm its source yet, and the findings may even be coincidental. Laboratory evidence is still lacking,” Dr. Qadri explained.
The source of cadmium contamination is under investigation, with potential culprits including polluted water, batteries, or paint residues. To deepen the probe, visceral samples from the deceased have been sent to the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) for further analysis.
Dr Qadri revealed that over 200 toxins are being evaluated in the ongoing inquiry. “Prominent research institutions across India are analyzing samples to identify the cause of these deaths,” he said.
On Thursday, MLA Budhal Javed Chaudhary announced that an antidote for cadmium poisoning is being developed to aid in treating affected individuals.
The authorities have declared a medical alert in response to the crisis. All leaves for doctors and paramedics have been cancelled to ensure uninterrupted medical care. Principal of GMC Rajouri, Dr Amarjeet Singh Bhatia, addressed a press conference on Friday, confirming these measures.
“Winter vacations for medical staff have been revoked to manage the health emergency, which has claimed 17 lives from three families over the past six weeks,” Dr Bhatia said. He also mentioned that the Jammu and Kashmir government has deployed 10 additional medical students to GMC Rajouri to support ongoing operations.
The number of quarantined individuals has now risen to 230, as authorities intensify efforts to address the mysterious illness. Investigators continue their work to uncover the root cause of the tragedy, which has gripped the region in fear and uncertainty.
