Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Jan 27: The situation in the Badhaal area of Rajouri appears to be stabilizing, with no new cases reported in the last five days. However, authorities are still working to confirm the cause behind the 17 mysterious deaths that occurred in the village over the past two months.
Officials informed that three siblings who were undergoing treatment at GMC Jammu and SMGS Srinagar have recovered and were discharged. These individuals have been shifted back to Rajouri, where they will remain under observation along with their families and close contacts.
Another patient, Aijaz Ahmad, who is being treated at PGI Chandigarh, is also showing signs of recovery, while other patients admitted to GMC Rajouri have also recovered.
Top health officials suspect that organophosphorus poisoning might be behind the deaths, as patients responded positively to atropine injections—a standard antidote for organophosphate poisoning.
A senior doctor explained, “Atropine was initially administered to two patients for heart rate management, and they showed significant improvement. This led us to consider organophosphorus poisoning as a likely cause.”
However, the doctor cautioned against premature conclusions, as official reports from top laboratories are still awaited.
Organophosphorus poisoning is caused by exposure to organophosphates, a class of chemicals commonly used in pesticides, herbicides, and nerve agents. Exposure can occur via ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact.
Common symptoms include excessive saliva and tears, vomiting and diarrhoea, small pupils, sweating, muscle tremors and confusion.
The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) report from Chandigarh, which could provide critical insights, is expected within 2–3 days.
Dr Shuja Qadri, an epidemiologist and Head of Community Medicine at GMC Rajouri, stated that active and passive surveillance of cases has ruled out communicable diseases, bacteria, viruses, and zoonotic causes. “Our investigation has narrowed down to food-related toxins, either ingested accidentally or deliberately,” he said.
Samples have been sent to toxicology labs for screening against 200 potential toxins. Dr. Qadri expressed optimism that the investigation will identify the toxin within a week, enabling authorities to prevent further deaths.
Over the last two months, 17 people, including 14 children, succumbed to the mysterious illness, with several others requiring hospitalisation.
Authorities are maintaining strict surveillance in the affected village, and all efforts are focused on identifying the cause to ensure no further loss of life.
Minister for Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, expressed confidence in the investigating team. She assured that all possible efforts are being made to identify the cause behind the mysterious deaths in Rajouri.
“The team is working diligently to gather more information and laboratory results, which will provide critical insights into the situation,” she said.
With the situation seeming to normalise, the minister appealed to the public to remain vigilant and cooperate fully with the authorities. “The government is committed to taking every necessary step to ensure the safety and well-being of the people, particularly those living in the affected areas,” Itoo added.
