In the village of Chhayasa in Palwal district, Haryana, a wave of fear has gripped the community following the untimely deaths of 20 individuals, including children, youth, and the elderly, over the past 15 days. Residents claim that victims initially suffer from a high fever, followed by a rapid decline in health, typically resulting in death within 48 hours. Medical investigations have revealed that a significant number of cases are associated with liver inflammation or liver failure, suggesting a dire public health crisis.

Local accounts describe a troubling pattern, wherein families have been devastated by the loss of their loved ones. One villager, Muhammad Shahid, recounted the heartbreaking story of his 12-year-old nephew, who fell ill with a fever and subsequently succumbed to liver failure after being transferred between medical facilities in Palwal and Faridabad. Similar tragic narratives were shared by relatives of 24-year-old Dilshad and 13-year-old Sharik, whose conditions rapidly deteriorated after experiencing fever and liver complications, as confirmed by ultrasounds that indicated liver swelling and fluid accumulation in the abdomen.

The alarming series of deaths has compelled the villagers to question the root causes, with many pointing to contaminated water as a potential factor. Other residents, like Asaduddin, have lost family members under similar circumstances, further highlighting the urgent need for medical attention and investigation into the health crisis affecting Chhayasa. The state’s health authorities must address this unfolding situation to mitigate fear and prevent further loss of life, as the unnerving lack of answers leaves the community in distress and uncertainty.