Mystery Illness Claims 17 Lives in Jammu & Kashmir's Badhaal Village; Authorities Intensify Measures

The Rajouri district administration has declared Badhaal village, located in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district, a containment zone following the deaths of 17 residents from a mysterious illness since December. District Magistrate Abhishek Sharma issued orders under Section 163 of the BNS to prohibit public gatherings and restrict movement within the village to safeguard public health and prevent the potential spread of infection.

Five More Hospitalized; Emergency Airlifts Arranged

Among them, 25-year-old Ajaz Khan was airlifted to PGI Chandigarh in an air ambulance provided by the Union home ministry. Three minor sisters were referred to GMC Rajouri before being airlifted to Jammu in an Army helicopter, while another patient was shifted to GMC Rajouri from CHC Kandi.

Strict Measures in Place

As per the district magistrate's order, the homes of affected families have been sealed, with entry barred for all unauthorized individuals. Close contacts of the deceased have been moved to GMC Rajouri for continuous health monitoring. Meals provided to families in the containment zone are being supervised, and logbooks are maintained thrice daily by designated officers to ensure accountability.

Screenings and Investigations Underway

Health department teams have screened approximately 3,500 residents in Badhaal and neighboring villages, but tests have so far ruled out any viral or bacterial infection. An inter-ministerial team is stationed in the village to investigate the cause of the mass deaths, which has yet to be identified.

Authorities on High Alert

Police personnel have been deployed to monitor food distribution and ensure compliance with the containment protocols. Efforts are being intensified to determine the source of the illness and prevent further fatalities as the community grapples with the crisis.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Dr. Sreelekshmi P/MSM)