JAMMU, JANUARY 15(BANN): In response to growing concerns over recent deaths in Budhal village of Rajouri district, the Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education, Sakeena Itoo, assured the public that investigations are ongoing to determine the actual cause of these tragic incidents.
Speaking on the matter, the Minister stated that a comprehensive door-to-door health survey was conducted in the affected village, covering more than three thousand residents. Samples of water, food, and other items were collected and sent for thorough testing.
“All tests conducted, including those on water, food grains, biscuits, and other items, have returned negative results,” the Minister said. She added that even tests for influenza and other infections were found negative.
To ensure accuracy, the health department also sent samples to national institutions such as the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), National Institute of Virology, National Centre for Disease Control, DRDO, PGIMER Chandigarh, and others. The reports from these institutions also confirmed no signs of contamination or infectious diseases.
Sakeena Itoo highlighted that the deaths occurred within three families living about 1.5 kilometers apart. She reassured that during the last 40 days, the health department maintained an active presence in the area, providing ambulances, medicines, and essential supplies. “In such cases, if there were an infectious disease like COVID-19, it would have spread by now. However, no health-related issues have been found so far,” she added.
The Minister emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and involves the police department and district administration to uncover the real cause of these unfortunate deaths. She expressed her deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and assured the public that the government is taking this matter very seriously.
“Our top priority is the well-being of citizens. We are committed to uncovering the root cause of these deaths,” Sakeena Itoo said.
She appealed to the public to remain calm and cooperate fully with the authorities during the investigation. The Minister reassured that the government would leave no stone unturned in addressing this situation.
