JAMMU, DEC 25: Senior social and health activist Sukesh C. Khajuria has raised alarm over the recent deaths of nine individuals, including seven children, in Badhaal village of Kotranka tehsil, Rajouri. The victims, from two Scheduled Tribe families, included a pregnant woman and a male adult. The mysterious nature of these deaths has highlighted glaring gaps in the region’s healthcare system and sparked widespread concern.
As per statement issued to The Newsroom 24 – Awaz, Khajuria, known for his advocacy on public health issues, urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to undertake an immediate overhaul of the state’s health services. He criticized the system for being exploitative and failing to serve marginalized communities in remote areas. “The tragic deaths of nine people, particularly seven children, expose the harsh realities of our healthcare system, which has not kept pace with advancements in medical technology. These services remain inaccessible to the poor and underserved,” he stated.
In response to the incident, Khajuria called for a thorough investigation to uncover the cause of these deaths. He suggested the involvement of law enforcement agencies and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to ensure accountability. He also demanded immediate measures to prevent further fatalities in the region.
A central team of health experts has been dispatched to Rajouri, along with a Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) mobile laboratory, to expedite testing and identify the illness. Despite these efforts, concerns persist over whether the deaths were caused by a contagious disease, environmental factors, or medical negligence.
Khajuria’s past work, including his fight against spurious drugs in Ramnagar tehsil of Udhampur, demonstrates his commitment to public health. His efforts to secure compensation for victims of harmful drugs underline his dedication to ensuring justice and systemic reform.
As the region grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, Khajuria reiterated his call for authorities to prioritize the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations. “This incident should serve as a wake-up call to overhaul our healthcare infrastructure and make it equitable for all,” he added.
