The Madhya Pradesh High Court has expressed serious concerns about the recent water contamination tragedy in Indore that has resulted in several deaths over the past two weeks. The court emphasized that if necessary, “civil and criminal liabilities” would be determined for officials found responsible for the situation. In response to Public Interest Litigations (PIL) from various stakeholders, a division bench of Justice Vijay Kumar Shukla and Justice Alok Awasthi criticized the state government’s handling of the health crisis in Indore.
Senior advocate Ritesh Inani, who filed the first PIL in the case, highlighted that the court has taken a strict stance on the government’s insensitivity towards the issue. The court has instructed the Madhya Pradesh government to provide a detailed status report on the number of deaths caused by consuming contaminated water. It stressed that the problem extends beyond Bhagirathpura area to the entire state, demanding accountability for ensuring clean drinking water in Madhya Pradesh.
During the hearing, the court also questioned the adequacy of the state government’s previous status report and directed authorities to submit a revised report. Furthermore, the court has summoned Madhya Pradesh Chief Secretary Anurag Jain to appear via video conferencing at the next hearing scheduled for January 15. Senior advocate Ajay Bagadiya, representing one of the PILs, highlighted the court’s criticism of the practice of sending newly appointed IAS officers to Indore, who allegedly neglect the city’s welfare.
The court expressed deep concern over the drinking water crisis in Indore, emphasizing that water contamination poses a significant threat to the city’s health. Following the demand from PIL representatives for clarity on the casualties resulting from contaminated water in Bhagirathpura area, the court underscored the gravity of the situation. Recent reports from the Bhagirathpura primary health center in Indore revealed 38 new cases of vomiting and diarrhea linked to contaminated water, with the death toll currently standing at seven.
