The National Human Rights Commission has taken serious note of a tragic incident in Madhya Pradesh, issuing a formal notice to the state government. This action comes after seven people lost their lives and more than 40 others fell ill from allegedly consuming contaminated water in Indore district.
Details of the Bhagirathpura Tragedy
According to media reports which prompted the NHRC's suo motu cognisance, the incident occurred in the Bhagirathpura area of Indore. Local residents had reportedly been raising alarms about the supply of contaminated water for several days before the crisis peaked. Authorities, however, failed to take timely action to address these complaints, the rights body observed.
Indore Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava provided a preliminary assessment, indicating that drainage water seeped into the drinking water pipeline due to a leakage. This mix-up is believed to have triggered a severe outbreak of diarrhoea and vomiting among the residents.
Official Response and NHRC Intervention
The commission stated that the incident raises a serious issue of violation of the human rights of the victims. Consequently, it has issued a notice to the Chief Secretary of the Madhya Pradesh government. The state has been given two weeks to submit a detailed report on the matter, explaining the lapses and the steps taken.
On the ground, local claims suggest the death toll could be higher, with some stating that at least eight people, including six women, died over the past week due to water-borne illnesses.
Compensation and Government Action
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed grief over the incident and announced financial assistance. The government will provide Rs 2 lakh each to the families of the deceased. Furthermore, the state has committed to bearing the entire cost of treatment for all affected patients.
The NHRC's intervention underscores the critical failure in public utility management and highlights the urgent need for accountability and robust mechanisms to prevent such public health disasters in the future.
