The unknown factor: What we know about the Rajouri death mystery so far

Seventeen individuals from three interrelated families in Badhaal village succumbed to a mysterious illness (Image: IANS)

Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday asserted that a probe is underway to unravel the mystery behind 17 deaths in Badhaal village of Rajouri district. Meanwhile, Home Minister Amit Shah has ordered the constitution of the inter-ministerial team to ascertain the causes of death in the three families linked to each other in the remote village, about 55 km from Rajouri town, between December 7 and January 19.

Experts from some of the most reputable institutions in the country have been arranged to manage the situation and understand the causes of the deaths. The patients complained of fever, pain, nausea, intense sweating and loss of consciousness before dying within days of their admission to hospitals.

How the events unfolded

Seventeen individuals from three interrelated families in Badhaal village succumbed to a mysterious illness. The death toll reached 17, which included 14 children, prompting local authorities to seek assistance from central health agencies. A team of experts from the Centre arrived in Rajouri to assist with the investigation.

District Magistrate imposed Section 163 of the BNSS (formerly Section 144 CrPC) in Badhaal village, declaring it a containment zone. Measures included sealing affected households, dividing the area into three zones, prohibiting public and private gatherings, and assigning officials to monitor meals provided to families in containment zones.

Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah visited Badhaal village to express condolences and assured residents that the ongoing investigation would soon provide answers. He acknowledged the challenges in healthcare accessibility in remote areas and emphasised efforts to enhance medical facilities at the district level.

Investigation findings

According to a report by The Indian Express, preliminary investigations by the central health team suggested that the deaths were not due to a 'mystery' disease. Experts indicated the possibility of pesticide exposure as a contributing factor, though conclusive results were pending further analysis.

The report stated that the initial probe has revealed the presence of pesticide residues in a nearby ‘baoli’ (water reservoir). It quoted sources saying that it is suspected that the victims consumed water from this reservoir.

The report further quoted sources confirming that the local administration has passed an order to block and seal the ‘baoli’.

However, while pesticide contamination is a leading theory, further investigation is needed to definitively establish the cause of death and the exact nature of the contamination.