Former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Uma Bharti launched a scathing attack on the state government and Indore's mayor, holding them responsible for the deaths caused by contaminated water in the city. The criticism came four days after the tragic incident, which has so far claimed ten lives.
"Maha-Paap" and a Call for "Prayaschit"
Taking to social media platform X on Friday, Bharti described the incident as a "maha-paap" or great sin. She stated that the event has brought shame and disgrace to the state, its government, and the entire administrative system. The senior BJP leader demanded "prayaschit" or atonement for the failure.
She called for an official apology to the grieving families and insisted on severe punishment for every official found responsible at all levels. Bharti also questioned the adequacy of the compensation, arguing that Rs 2 lakh for a lost life is insufficient as the families endure a lifetime of sorrow.
Indore's Clean Image Exposed
In her post, Bharti highlighted the stark contrast between Indore's celebrated status as the cleanest city in India and the current reality. She said the awards and accolades now stand meaningless as the city's underlying "ugliness, filth, and poisoned water" have been tragically exposed.
The former CM noted that the contaminated water has "swallowed so many lives," with the death toll still rising. She framed the crisis as a major test for Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, writing, "Yeh Mohan Yadavji ki pariksha ki ghadi hai" (This is a testing time for Mohan Yadavji).
Mayor's Defence Draws Sharp Rebuke
Uma Bharti specifically targeted Indore Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava for his response to the tragedy. The mayor had reportedly defended himself by claiming that officials of the Indore Municipal Corporation do not listen to him.
Bharti sharply countered this defence. "Who is it saying that he couldn't have his way in the contaminated water case?" she questioned. She went further, asking why he continues to hold the post if he cannot get things done and pointedly noted that he consumes packaged drinking water, implying a disconnect from the plight of ordinary citizens.
The political fallout from the Indore water tragedy is intensifying, with pressure mounting on the Madhya Pradesh administration to deliver justice, provide better support to victims' families, and ensure such a public health disaster is never repeated.
