‘Efforts underway to identify cause as ligh-level team begins probe
Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu, (DD): Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday stated that efforts are ongoing to ascertain the cause behind the mysterious deaths of 16 people in Budhal village of Rajouri district over the past 45 days.
Speaking to reporters, the LG said, “The Jammu and Kashmir Health Department, along with other departments, conducted an investigation, but the exact cause could not be determined. Yesterday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah constituted a high-level expert committee, which has now arrived to investigate the matter further.”
The inter-ministerial team, led by the Ministry of Home Affairs, is collaborating with local administration to determine the underlying factors behind the deaths. It includes experts from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, and Ministry of Water Resources, along with specialists in animal husbandry, food safety, and forensic science.
The team, composed of experts from reputed institutions, has started its inquiry to assess possible environmental, health, or contamination-related factors contributing to the fatalities. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed by the police is also assisting with the probe to ensure all aspects are thoroughly examined.
This high-level intervention aims to provide clarity and prevent further loss of life in the affected area (DD)