An unidentified illness that has claimed 17 lives and affected 38 others in Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir, has been attributed to neurotoxins, according to Union Minister Jitendra Singh. Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Singh ruled out any bacterial or viral infection as the cause. “The first test conducted by a toxicology laboratory in Lucknow, CSIR, showed there was no infection, no virus, and no bacteria. It was just a toxin,” Singh said, adding that further tests are underway to identify the specific toxin.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah visited Rajouri’s Badhal on Tuesday to assess the situation. He highlighted the efforts of the health department and other agencies in addressing the crisis. “Tests were conducted, and we concluded that no bacteria or virus caused these deaths,” Abdullah stated.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has taken serious note of the issue, directing the formation of an inter-ministerial team to probe the matter. Led by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the team aims to uncover the causes behind these unexplained deaths, which have occurred over the past six weeks.
Findings on the Mystery Disease
Since December 2024, the illness has resulted in 17 fatalities and impacted 38 others in the region. Despite the alarming figures, the health department has assured that there is no immediate need to declare a public health emergency.
Dr. A.S. Bhatia, Principal of Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri, disclosed during a press conference that all deceased individuals exhibited a common symptom: brain swelling, or edema. Further analysis revealed that neurotoxins detected in samples from the deceased were responsible for causing significant brain damage.
Neurotoxins are hazardous substances that impair the nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord. These toxins can cause mild discomfort, severe neurological damage, or even death by disrupting nerve signal transmission.
Health experts emphasized the urgency of identifying the specific toxin involved. “A long series of toxins are being tested,” said Minister Singh. “If there is any mischief involved, it will soon come to light.”
Investigation Intensifies
Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s directive has fast-tracked the investigation, with national laboratories analyzing samples to isolate the toxin. The inter-ministerial team is working in tandem with local health authorities to determine the root cause and implement preventive measures.
As Rajouri residents remain on edge, officials have assured that every effort is being made to resolve the mystery behind these deaths. Authorities believe identifying the neurotoxin will help prevent further casualties and bring relief to the affected community.
