Synopsis
On January 22, four more individuals were hospitalized in Rajouri, J&K, due to symptoms of a bizarre illness that has already claimed 17 lives. The village of Budhaal has been declared a containment zone as officials investigate the cause of this mysterious disease.Key Takeaways
- 17 deaths linked to mysterious illness in Rajouri.
- Three sisters from Budhaal village hospitalized.
- Containment zone declared under BNSS.
- Health screenings conducted for 3,500 locals.
- Inter-ministerial team deployed to investigate.
Jammu, Jan 22 (NationPress) Following the admission of a patient exhibiting symptoms of an unidentified illness, three sisters from Budhaal village in J&K's Rajouri district were hospitalized on Wednesday. This incident comes after 17 individuals have succumbed to this mysterious ailment.
Officials reported that due to the worsening health of the sisters, arrangements are underway to transfer them for specialized care to Jammu city.
Previously, authorities were unable to reach a definitive conclusion regarding the cause of the 17 mysterious fatalities in Rajouri district. Therefore, on Wednesday, they designated Budhaal village as a containment zone under section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
The District Magistrate of Rajouri has imposed containment measures in light of recent health concerns. In compliance with Section 163 of the BNSS Act (previously Section 144 of the CrPC), stringent protocols have been enacted to safeguard public health and curb any potential outbreaks.
As part of these containment actions, the residences of affected families have been sealed. The locality has been divided into three distinct zones for effective management. All public and private gatherings are strictly forbidden.
To ensure the safety of residents, designated officials have been assigned to oversee the preparation and distribution of food to families within the containment areas.
The administration has promised residents that further information and updates will be provided as the situation evolves.
Since December 8, 2024, at least 17 locals, including 11 children, have lost their lives in Budhaal village. The latest death was recorded on January 17.
Samples tested at several leading laboratories have returned negative results for viral or bacterial infections, although some toxins were detected in samples obtained from the victims.
J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah visited the village on Tuesday and assured residents that the root cause of the deaths would be identified soon. He also expressed condolences for the villagers' losses.
The Health Department has screened 3,500 locals, including residents from Budhaal and nearby villages, with similar negative results for any viral or bacterial infection.
An inter-ministerial team, established under the directive of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, is currently in the village to determine the exact cause of this mysterious illness.
