The deaths of 17 civilians in the remote village of Badhaal, Budhal area of Rajouri district, between December and January, have sparked intense debate in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly. Lawmakers, led by NC legislator Javed Choudhary, have demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the matter, citing possible links to similar deaths in Billawar (Kathua) and Kulgam.
The discussion unfolded during the Question Hour, as Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo informed the House that clinical reports and laboratory investigations indicated the deaths were not due to bacterial or viral diseases. Instead, toxic elements such as aluminium, cadmium, and various chemical compounds were found in food and environmental samples.
Scientific Findings Raise Alarming Questions
Reports from esteemed institutions revealed:
- PGIMER Chandigarh detected the presence of aluminium and cadmium.
- CSIR-IITS Lucknow found Aldicarb sulphate and Acetamipride Dlethyil dithiocarbamate.
- DRDI-DRDO Gwalior discovered Chlorphenapyr and Abrin in food samples.
- NFL, FSSAI Ghaziabad identified Chlorphenapyr and Chlorpyrophos.
- CFSL Chandigarh confirmed Chlorphenapyr, an insecticide, in the viscera samples of all 17 deceased.
While authorities continue to investigate the source of contamination, forensic and toxicological analyses are underway. Health and police departments are collaborating to trace the origin of the poisoning and prevent further casualties.
Legislators Demand Higher-Level Probe
Javed Choudhary questioned, “The scientific findings confirm poisoning, but who administered the toxins and why?” He emphasized the need for an impartial inquiry, stating that the deaths should not be viewed in isolation but as part of a possible larger conspiracy.
Supporting the demand for a CBI probe, Independent MLA Choudhary Akram expressed frustration over the lack of answers. CPIM leader M Y Tarigami echoed similar concerns, suggesting potential external threats beyond Badhaal village.
“We must ascertain if there are invisible hands behind this tragedy that could pose risks to other regions. We need to reach the root cause of the case,” said Tarigami.
Minister Urges Patience, Assures Ongoing Inquiry
In response, Minister Sakina Itoo requested lawmakers to await the outcome of the ongoing investigation. She assured that if further actions are required, the government will take appropriate steps.
Government’s Response and Measures Taken
The minister outlined key measures taken to address the crisis:
- Deployment of expert clinical teams from PGIMER Chandigarh and AIIMS New Delhi.
- Admission of 64 patients to GMC Rajouri, of whom 41 have been discharged.
- Referral of 17 critical patients to GMC Jammu and one patient to PGIMER Chandigarh.
- Implementation of a standardized treatment policy devised by AIIMS and PGI Chandigarh.
- Establishment of an isolation ward at SMGS Hospital, Jammu, with specialist doctors deployed.
Timeline of the Crisis
- December 7, 2024 – The first cluster of deaths was reported, initially suspected to be food poisoning.
- December 12, 2024 – A second wave of cases intensified concerns.
- January 14, 2025 – A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed to probe the mysterious deaths.
Additionally, the Deputy Commissioner of Rajouri has provided financial assistance to the bereaved families from the Red Cross fund.
Public Outcry Grows
As the mystery deepens, calls for a transparent and independent investigation are growing louder. With legislators and citizens demanding justice, all eyes are now on the government’s next move. The findings of the ongoing probe are expected to determine whether this was a case of accidental contamination or something far more sinister.
