A small village in Jammu’s Rajouri district, Baddal, has become the epicenter of a tragic and baffling crisis. Since December, 17 people from three families have succumbed to an unidentified cause, leaving the community in shock and fear.
The deaths, described as sudden and unexplained, have prompted a joint response from authorities in Jammu and Kashmir and the Centre. Medical teams, health officials, and forensic experts have been dispatched to the village, yet the cause remains elusive.
Preliminary investigations have identified nearly 200 individuals who had direct or indirect contact with the victims, raising concerns about a possible outbreak or environmental hazard. The affected families reportedly experienced similar symptoms before their deaths, heightening speculation of a common underlying factor.
Local residents, grappling with grief and uncertainty, have resorted to desperate measures, including evacuating vulnerable individuals and consulting traditional healers. “We’re scared to even step out of our homes,” said one villager.
Authorities have assured swift action and are conducting comprehensive medical screenings, environmental testing, and contact tracing to determine the cause. The tragedy has also drawn attention to the need for improved healthcare infrastructure in remote areas.
As the mystery deepens, the government has urged calm while intensifying efforts to provide clarity and prevent further casualties.