RAJOURI/JAMMU, Jan 18: On Saturday, Jammu and Kashmir’s Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary visited Badhaal village in Rajouri district, where 16 individuals have succumbed to a mysterious illness over the past two months. Choudhary expressed his condolences, stating that this tragedy impacts the village, Jammu and Kashmir, and the nation as a whole. “No government wishes to see its citizens perish under such circumstances,” he remarked after meeting with the families of the deceased.
He assured them that the ongoing investigation would reach a definitive outcome. Choudhary further explained, “If the deaths result from natural causes, there may be limited government action. However, if otherwise, there will be accountability. We are committed to uncovering the reasons behind these fatalities, and we believe that the truth will emerge shortly.”
Since December, three families have lost a total of 16 members, with seven deaths occurring just this past Sunday in Badhaal village, located in the Kotranka sub-division of Rajouri.
In response to the situation, authorities have sealed off three homes belonging to the affected families and relocated 21 relatives to government facilities for close observation.
The Deputy CM confirmed that medical teams are actively addressing community concerns, and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been established to probe the cause of these deaths.
“The Chief Minister is closely tracking the situation, and all efforts are being exerted to determine whether these deaths stem from natural causes. I urge the public to remain calm,” Choudhary advised. He also noted that an initial compensation payment has been provided to the victims’ families.
