Srinagar, India – The mysterious deaths of 17 individuals from three families in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir have left authorities puzzled since December 7 last year. Traces of various toxins were discovered in samples collected from the affected families, including chlorfenapyr and sulfone, both known for their neurotoxic properties.
Despite the presence of these compounds, officials have yet to definitively determine the cause of the deaths in Badhal village. The toxicology reports have not been made public by the Union government or the Union Territory administration.
Leading institutes in the country, such as the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), conducted extensive testing on tissue samples from the deceased and thousands of samples from locals. Locals began exhibiting symptoms like dizziness, loss of consciousness, fever, and vomiting, leading to fear and anguish in the community.
Health officials are concerned that the multiple toxins present in the samples may have inadvertently been introduced, complicating the investigation. While some medical professionals believe neurotoxins were the primary cause of deaths, the exact origins of these toxins remain unknown.
Authorities have launched a thorough investigation, with a special team of officials and J&K police working to uncover the source of the toxins. Reports suggest that chlorfenapyr, a rare toxin not readily available in local markets, may have been brought in from outside the area.
The deaths have deeply impacted the community, with 12 children and a pregnant woman among the deceased. To prevent further contamination, containment zones were established in the village, and patients were treated with atropine, an antidote for organophosphate poisoning.
As investigations continue, a Union home ministry team is leading the efforts to determine the facts behind these tragic deaths. The community remains on edge as they await answers and justice for the families who have suffered.