Rajouri deaths mystery: No disease found, investigation underway

In Rajouri’s Badhaal village, over a dozen deaths, including 11 children, have raised concerns, but tests reveal no disease or infection link, said Health Minister Sakeena Masood. A thorough investigation is underway to determine the cause.

Since December 7, 2024, 13 people from three related families have died. Despite initial fears of a mysterious disease, health authorities conducted extensive tests, with results from local and national laboratories, including the ICMR and NCDC, all returning negative.

Masood confirmed that there was no evidence of a viral or bacterial cause. Over 3,500 villagers were screened, and the water and food samples tested negative for contaminants.

While experts found neurotoxins in some deceased, the exact cause remains under investigation. The police and district authorities are looking into the deaths, and further forensic reports, including from the FSL, are awaited to clarify the matter.