A mysterious illness has claimed 17 lives, including 13 children, in the remote village of Badhaal, Jammu and Kashmir, as of February 5, 2025. Dr. Suraj Malhotra, a leading epidemiologist from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), has been dispatched to oversee the investigation. Authorities suspect a toxin, potentially from contaminated food or water, as the cause.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has called for urgent action, ordering health teams to conduct door-to-door surveillance across the affected region. Over 230 individuals have been quarantined as a precaution, with medical officers reporting symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and sudden loss of consciousness.
Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has assured additional support from the central government, pledging resources to identify the source of the illness within 48 hours. This tragedy has raised concerns about the region’s access to clean water and healthcare facilities, with local MLA Shabir Ahmad urging a long-term resolution to such challenges.