Fri Jan 17 17:57:11 UTC 2025: ## Mysterious Deaths Plague Rajouri Village in J&K; Death Toll Reaches 16
**Srinagar, January 17, 2025** – A cluster of mysterious deaths in Badhal village, Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir, has claimed 16 lives, prompting a high-level investigation. Three more deaths were reported in the past three days, bringing the total to 16 since December 7, 2024. All victims are from three families living within a 1.5-kilometer radius. Eleven of the deceased were children, and one was a pregnant woman.
J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah convened a high-level meeting to address the crisis, stating the government is “fully committed to swiftly identifying the underlying cause.” A Special Investigation Team (SIT) of police and medical experts has been formed. Extensive testing by national-level centers has ruled out infectious diseases such as influenza. Health department teams conducted a door-to-door survey and collected samples for testing, but results have been inconclusive. Police are also investigating.
Leader of the Opposition Sunil Sharma criticized the government’s response, alleging an “irresponsible attitude” and accusing the Chief Minister of a delayed and inadequate response. Sharma claimed that initial government responses were insufficient and lacked urgency. The cause of the deaths remains unknown.
First Piper 