'From cough syrup deaths to sewage water': Rahul Gandhi targets BJP over Indore crisis, calls MP 'epicentre of misgovernance'

Rahul Gandhi on Friday criticised the handling of Indore’s deadly water crisis, in which contaminated drinking water in Bhagirathpura has killed several people and left many others ill.

Indore water contamination: 26 of 50 samples test positive for bacteria

Taking to social media, Rahul Gandhi condemned the administration, stating: "There was no water in Indore, poison was distributed, and the administration remained in deep slumber. Mourning fills every home; the poor are helpless. Complaints about dirty, foul-smelling water went unheard. Clean water is not a favour, it is a right to life."



He questioned how sewage entered the drinking water, why supply was not stopped in time, and when action would be taken against responsible officials. Gandhi blamed the state administration for reckless management and insensitivity.

Conflicting Death Figures Raise Alarm

Indore Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava told PTI that he had received reports of 10 deaths due to the diarrhoea outbreak in Bhagirathpura. However, the official health department data confirms four deaths, while residents claim 14 fatalities, including a six-month-old infant.

CMHO Dr Madhav Prasad Hasani confirmed that laboratory tests indicated the contamination resulted from a leak in a main drinking water pipeline. Officials also noted that a toilet constructed over the pipeline may have worsened the situation.

Hospitalisations and Health Impact

More than 1,400 people have fallen ill over the past nine days. As of Thursday night:

• 272 patients were admitted to hospitals.
• 71 patients have been discharged.
• 201 remain hospitalised, including 32 in intensive care units (ICUs).

Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, including the risk of cholera spread in the area.

Indore Administrative Response

The Indore Municipal Corporation has sealed the leak near the police outpost and dismantled the toilet. Additional water samples have been collected for testing. Residents are advised to boil water before drinking and use tanker-supplied water for consumption until authorities confirm it is safe.

Public Outcry and Demand for Accountability

The crisis has sparked widespread outrage, highlighting flaws in urban water infrastructure and monitoring.

Residents are urged to follow safety instructions and prioritise boiled or alternative water sources until the water supply is declared safe.

Stay Safe During Water Contamination: General Guidelines

1. Avoid Drinking Tap Water

• Do not drink water directly from the tap or pipeline until authorities confirm it is safe.
• Use bottled water or water supplied by official tankers.

2. Boil Water Before Use

• Boil all water for at least 5–10 minutes before drinking, cooking, or brushing teeth.
• Allow it to cool before using.

3. Use Safe Water for Cooking

• Wash fruits, vegetables, and utensils with boiled or bottled water.
• Avoid ice made from tap water.

4. Maintain Personal Hygiene

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and safe water, especially before meals and after using the toilet.
• Avoid touching eyes, mouth, or face with unwashed hands.

5. Follow Official Advisories

• Keep track of updates from local authorities, municipal corporations, and the health department.
• Follow instructions on water usage and restrictions.

6. Use Water for Non-Drinking Purposes Only
Tap water may be used for bathing, cleaning, or washing clothes if necessary, but avoid swallowing.

7. Monitor Health Symptoms

• Watch for signs of diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, or abdominal pain.
• Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear.

8. Store Water Safely
Keep boiled or bottled water in clean, covered containers to prevent further contamination.

9. Avoid Street or Unverified Water Sources
Don’t rely on water from unknown vendors, roadside taps, or open tanks.

10. Educate Family and Neighbours
Ensure everyone in your household, especially children and the elderly, follows these precautions.


Inputs from agencies