Wedding celebrations dampened in village
The house of Akhlakh Shah, a groom who married on Monday, stood in stark contrast to the usual vibrant wedding celebrations. Located in Badhaal village of Rajouri district, the house lacked the usual hustle and bustle, festive decorations and the jubilant atmosphere typically associated with a wedding.
Only a few close relatives were present, while Akhlakh, accompanied by just five family members, had travelled to neighbouring Draj village to bring his bride.
The sombre mood gripping the village is tied to a series of unexplained deaths, 17 in total, since early December. Despite efforts from doctors and experts, the cause of these deaths remains unknown, heightening fear and uncertainty among the village’s residents.
Mushtaq Shah, Akhlakh’s cousin, spoke to The Tribune about the growing sense of sorrow in the village. “Dead bodies of our fellow villagers are being brought back from Jammu frequently, which has dampened the spirit of festivities,” he said. Shah explained that the villagers are closely connected, and in times of grief, they support one another. “Although our wedding had been fixed months ago and we couldn’t postpone it, we have toned down the celebrations to show solidarity with the grieving families.”
He also mentioned that at least 50 people had initially planned to travel to Draj for the bride’s procession. However, due to the prevailing fear, many residents and relatives opted to stay home, avoiding social interactions.
In response to the ongoing concerns, the administration issued an order advising residents to refrain from organising community feasts. The Tehsildar of Khawas and the SHO of Kandi have been instructed to ensure compliance with this directive.
Despite the ongoing weddings in the village, locals reported a drastic shift in social customs. Residents no longer visit each other’s homes, and the tradition of sharing food has come to a halt. "We don’t know what’s causing the deaths, including among children.
“We don’t know what’s causing the deaths, including among children. The administration hasn’t been able to provide any answers, which has created a deep sense of fear,” said Mohd Ashraf, a local villager.
Contaminated spring sealed
Authorities have discovered that a spring (Bawli), previously a key water source for locals, tested positive for pesticides and insecticides. As a result, the spring has been sealed, and the authorities have imposed a ban on its usage. “Samples from the spring tested positive for pesticides/insecticides. The Bawli has been blocked by the Jal Shakti department and sealed by the magistrate. There are concerns that tribal populations may attempt to collect water from the spring clandestinely,” the order stated.
The directive emphasised, “Tehsildar Khawas shall ensure that no village uses water from this spring, and the SHO Kandi is directed to deploy 2 to 3 security personnel to prevent any use of the contaminated water.”
As the investigation continues, the village remains in a state of unease.
