A 62-year-old woman from Bhagirathpura locality in Indore, who was undergoing medical treatment at a hospital, passed away on Wednesday. This unfortunate incident has ignited fresh political controversy, with the Congress party alleging this marks the 30th death linked to what they term a 'diarrhoea pandemic' in the area.
Family and Health Department Exercise Caution
The health department authorities and the victim's own family members have, however, demonstrated caution regarding the precise cause of death. The deceased, identified as Laxmi Rajak, was admitted to the hospital just a couple of days prior after complaining of severe symptoms including vomiting and diarrhoea.
Her son, Vijay, provided details stating that during her treatment, doctors also informed the family about kidney failure complications. "We are in a dilemma over the exact cause of death," Vijay said. He further clarified that the family has not yet officially approached the health department to categorise the death as a direct result of the suspected waterborne outbreak.
Health Officials Rule Out Infection Link
Amidst the family's hesitation and uncertainty, health officials have ruled out the infection as a contributing factor in this particular case. This assessment was based on the patient's initial symptoms and medical presentation, according to official statements.
Congress Leader's Sharp Criticism
The death triggered a sharp and immediate reaction from opposition leaders. Senior Congress leader KK Mishra took to social media platform X to lash out at the state of governance in the city. "The 30th death today (on Wednesday) due to drinking of contaminated water mixed with excreta in Indore's Bhagirathpura... this endless cycle of innocent deaths is not stopping," Mishra wrote in his post.
He pointedly questioned why no high-ranking official has been held responsible despite the mounting death toll, claiming rather dramatically that the city now has only 'God as its protector.'
Tense Atmosphere in Bhagirathpura
In Bhagirathpura itself, the atmosphere remained tense throughout Wednesday. The family of another resident, Khubchand, who had died just the day before on Tuesday, staged a protest by placing his body on the road prior to the funeral proceedings. Their demands were clear: accountability from authorities and appropriate compensation for their loss.
Current Hospitalisation Statistics
According to the latest data released by the health department, the number of hospitalised victims has shown a decline, dropping to six patients. Out of these six cases, three remain in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), with one patient currently requiring ventilator support for survival.
The situation continues to develop as political accusations fly, families grieve, and health officials work to manage both medical cases and public concerns in this central Indian city.
