Six Fatalities in Barwani District Linked to Rabies After Unidentified Animal Bites 17 People

In Barwani district, Madhya Pradesh, six individuals have died under mysterious circumstances over the past 12 days after being bitten by an unidentified animal. Officials suspect the animal might be rabid, though confirmation is pending. The incident has prompted various government departments to initiate an investigation into these deaths.

Barwani's Divisional Forest Officer, Ashish Bansod, revealed that the unknown animal attacked 17 people within a span of three hours. "The animal seems to have been infected with the rabies virus," he stated. Efforts to locate the creature are ongoing, but it remains elusive. The attack occurred in Limbai village, approximately 4.5 km from the forest boundary.

Investigation and Compensation

District Magistrate Ghuncha Sanobar confirmed that a detailed investigation is underway. A team from Khandwa's Government Medical College has conducted an inquiry at the site. The viscera of the deceased have been sent to a Delhi laboratory for analysis. "The cause of death will be determined once the report is available," she mentioned.

The forest department has begun processing compensation of Rs 8 lakh for each family of the deceased. Meanwhile, Congress MLA Hiralal Alawa has demanded higher compensation, seeking Rs 50 lakh for each deceased family and Rs 20 lakh for those injured.

Medical Response and Concerns

Block Medical Officer Dr Devendra Romede reported that on May 5, 17 people were bitten in rural Barwani and received anti-rabies injections. Tragically, six succumbed between May 23 and June 2. Indore's Government Maharaja Yashwantrao Chikitsalaya (MYH) treated five victims who left against medical advice after two days.

Dr Ashok Yadav from MYH noted that these patients departed despite doctors' recommendations. The hospital operates under Government Mahatma Gandhi Smriti Medical College. Dean Dr Arvind Ghanghoria suspects rabies as the cause of death and has sent a brain sample to Delhi for confirmation.

Community Impact and Reactions

The victims were identified as Raili Bai (60), Mansharam Chhagan (50), Sursingh Malsingh (50), Sadi Bai (60), Chainsingh Umrao (50), and Sunil Jetaria (40). These individuals were reportedly sleeping outdoors due to heat when attacked by an animal resembling a dog but not yet identified.

Congress MLA Hiralal Alawa criticised the response time, alleging that timely vaccination could have prevented these deaths. He addressed a letter to Chief Minister Mohan Yadav demanding increased compensation for affected families.

The situation remains tense as authorities await lab results to confirm if rabies was indeed responsible for these tragic deaths. The community continues to grapple with fear and uncertainty while officials work towards resolving this alarming issue.

With inputs from PTI