Thu Jan 23 22:15:31 UTC 2025: ## Mysterious Illness Kills 17 in Jammu and Kashmir, Sparking Political Row
**Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir, January 24, 2025** – A mysterious illness has claimed the lives of 17 people from three families in Badhal village, Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir, over the past 50 days, sparking a political controversy. At least 31 others have been affected.
National Conference (NC) MLA Javid Iqbal Chowdhary blamed the “dual power system” – the shared governance between the central and J&K governments – for hindering the response to the crisis. He alleges that political infighting is delaying critical interventions, including the transfer of patients to the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh, which offers advanced treatment and testing facilities. Chowdhary claims that an “ego clash” prevented the transfer of several critically ill patients, despite a referral letter from the Deputy Commissioner.
Chowdhary called for the crisis to be declared a national emergency and demanded a permanent air ambulance for the region and additional medical staff for the Badhal health facility. He noted that one patient transferred to PGIMER is responding well to treatment.
While officials report that most patients experienced high fever, body aches, vomiting, and unconsciousness, multiple testing agencies have ruled out known infectious diseases. The MLA suggests the illness may be linked to neurotoxins in the food chain, and a quarantine center has been established.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s proposal for ex-gratia payments to the affected families is reportedly pending approval from Raj Bhawan. The incident highlights the challenges posed by the complex governance structure in the region and underscores the urgency of resolving the health crisis.
First Piper 