The Indore Bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court has responded decisively to the health emergency in Bhagirathpura, Indore, caused by tainted drinking water, leading to illnesses and fatalities. Justices Rajesh Kumar Gupta and B.P. Sharma expressed strong disapproval of the negligence that jeopardized lives and instructed the state government to offer free medical care to all affected individuals. Emphasizing zero tolerance for any neglect in public health matters, the court’s intervention stemmed from a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Ritesh Inani, President of the Indore High Court Bar Association.
The PIL underscored the alleged failure of the administration to ensure clean water in a significant city like Indore, labeling it a basic civic duty. Acknowledging the severity of the situation and the imminent danger to lives, the court promptly addressed the issue and demanded accountability from the authorities. In response to the crisis originating from a leakage in the main Narmada water pipeline contaminated by sewage, the court mandated a detailed status report from the Madhya Pradesh government by January 2, 2026, outlining the death toll, current patient count, containment efforts, and preventive measures.
Advocate Inani revealed that the court not only mandated free treatment for hospitalized victims but also required a comprehensive report on the contamination-linked deaths, ongoing treatments, outbreak containment strategies, and preventive measures. Indore Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava confirmed seven deaths due to severe vomiting and diarrhea from the polluted water, with reports suggesting up to nine fatalities and concerns from residents of a potentially higher toll. Over 110 patients are hospitalized, with 36 discharged after treatment, and 1,146 individuals with mild symptoms received immediate care during administrative surveys.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced financial aid for the deceased families and suspended three municipal officials pending an inquiry. The High Court’s swift action has increased pressure on civic bodies, with a focus on the impending status report amid rising calls for accountability in what is known as India’s cleanest city.
