Opposition calls for CBI probe into Rajouri deaths

In Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir, the government is facing pressure to launch a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the deaths of 17 people. The Health Minister, Sakina Itoo, said the Home Department is currently investigating the case. They are looking into how an insecticide, chlorfenapyr, contaminated the individuals. Forensic analysis from the Central Forensic Science Laboratory identified chlorfenapyr in samples from all 17 deaths. Minister Itoo stated that investigations so far have ruled out communicable diseases. Police and health officials are working together to trace the source of the contamination, aiming to prevent more deaths. Opposition legislator Javed Iqbal Choudhary called for a CBI inquiry to ensure no foul play was involved. Other lawmakers, including M.Y. Tarigami, echoed this demand, stressing the need to determine the exact cause of death and uncover any possible conspiracies. The illnesses began on December 7 and continued until February. A total of 28 people were affected, with 17 fatalities, including 12 children and a pregnant woman. Doctors had suggested neurotoxins as potential causes but could not identify the source.