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Budhal, J&K: In response to the rising concerns following 16 ‘mysterious deaths’ over a span of just over a month, health department experts in Jammu and Kashmir have linked the fatalities to neurotoxins. A press conference held on Saturday in Budhal village, Rajouri district, sought to address fears and provide clarity to the locals. The conference was chaired by Dr. A.S. Bhatia, Principal of Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri, and Budhal MLA Javed Iqbal Chowdhary. Also present were Dr. Manohar Lal Rana, Chief Medical Officer of Rajouri; Dr. Shamim Ahmed, Medical Superintendent; and Dr. Zaeem Khan, Head of Chest and TB at GMC Rajouri.
Dr. Bhatia revealed that all the deceased individuals exhibited similar medical symptoms, with brain swelling or edema being a common factor. He assured the community that the health department was closely monitoring the situation and that treatment protocols had been set in place for the affected individuals.
“The situation is being actively investigated. We have identified that neurotoxins are present in the samples collected from the village, which have led to brain damage in victims,” said Dr. Bhatia. He further emphasized the challenges of treating such severe cases, explaining, “Once a patient reports with serious brain damage, it is unfortunately irreversible.”
Samples sent for testing to the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), National Institute of Virology in Pune, and other laboratories revealed no signs of viruses or bacteria, effectively ruling out the possibility of a communicable disease. However, the analysis confirmed the presence of neurotoxins, which have caused the brain damage leading to these tragic deaths.
Interestingly, all the victims belong to just three families, raising suspicions of foul play. The fact that this phenomenon has affected multiple members within a small group of families has only added to the mystery.
In light of these developments, the Rajouri Police have launched an investigation into the deaths. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to uncover the truth behind the deaths that occurred between December 7, 2024, and January 17, 2025.
Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant, with assurances that both the health department and local police are working diligently to determine the cause and prevent further harm. As investigations continue, the people of Budhal remain anxious, hoping for clarity on what has caused this wave of mysterious deaths.
