Deaths in Indore spark outrage and concern:Contaminated water caused 9 fatalities; prompting calls for investigation and accountability for those responsible

In Bhagirathpura, Indore, eight people have died after drinking contaminated water. Authorities took four months to realise that the deaths were linked to the water. The situation became serious as medicines that usually last a year in stores ran out in just four days. While residents suffered, leaders were seen attending events. A video showed local corporator Kamal Waghela swinging, and a photo showed Water Works in-charge Bablu Sharma serving food at a function. These images are now trending on social media. These are the 9 responsible for 9 deaths Now everyone is talking about investigation and repair Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava said that an investigation will be conducted into why there was a delay in the line whose tender was approved in the seventh month. Kamal Waghela informed that the tenders for the distribution line have been opened on Monday and the work order for replacing the main line has been issued. Rohit Sisonia said that the main line and distribution line works in the proposed projects in the ward will be completed in two months. Municipal Commissioner Dilip Yadav said that repair work has started. After repairs, flushing, chlorination and sample testing will be done. There will be no compromise with public health. Mayor’s tea discussion amidst deaths Amidst the disease spread by contaminated water and deaths in Bhagirathpura, Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava was seen discussing current topics over tea at the secretariat. During this, Youth Congress members protested outside. The Mayor had invited the media for a tea discussion a day earlier. However, the Bhagirathpura incident changed the agenda of discussion. In the discussion held at the Secretariat, Mayor and Water Works In-charge Bablu Sharma put the responsibility on the corporation officials and said that strict action would be taken against the culprits. Youth Congress President Amit Patel, former President Swapnil Kamble, and workers were present in the protest. Congressmen demonstrated with bottles filled with dirty water and said that the Mayor should focus on issues related to public life, not ‘Chai Pe Charcha’ (discussion over tea).