Srinagar, January 16: The Jammu and Kashmir Civil Society Forum (JKCSF) expressed grave concern over the tragic loss of over a dozen lives due to a mysterious illness in the Budhal area of Rajouri district.
The alarming situation underscores the urgency for immediate government action to prevent further loss of life and ensure the safety of the affected population, a statement issued to INS reads.
Chairman JKCSF Abdul Qayoom Wani has called for a thorough investigation into the root causes of this health emergency. The symptoms, including fever, vomiting, dehydration, and loss of consciousness, suggest a severe underlying issue that demands expert medical and scientific intervention, he said.
JKCSF emphasized the need to involve top health experts from SKIMS Soura, AIIMS Jammu, and leading national institutions like AIIMS Delhi to ascertain the nature and cause of the illness.
Wani pointed out that the delay in receiving forensic reports from the Jammu & Kashmir Forensic Laboratory reflects the inefficiency of existing mechanisms to handle health crises. “This negligence has heightened public anxiety, and the lack of critical infrastructure and preparedness in the district’s healthcare system has exposed the community to unnecessary risks. The chairman has urged the authorities to strengthen the forensic and diagnostic systems in the region to address future emergencies effectively,” he said.
JKCSF appealed to the secretary’s health and Medical education, district administration, Directorate of Health Services Jammu, and concerned government departments to deploy expert medical teams immediately to Budhal and surrounding areas. “These teams must conduct on-ground investigations, provide emergency medical aid, and ensure that preventive measures are in place to halt the spread of the illness to other regions,” he said.
Furthermore, Wani demanded the establishment of a crisis management system under the direct supervision of the Deputy Commissioner, secretary health and medical education, Divisional Commissioner, and the Health Minister to oversee the delivery of healthcare services and monitor the situation on a 24/7 basis.
The JKCSF reiterated that the affected families deserve immediate relief, and the government must demonstrate zero tolerance for negligence in addressing such critical health emergencies. Accountability, preparedness, and proactive measures are the need of the hour to safeguard public health and restore faith in the healthcare system, Wani added.
