Indore: Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi visited Indore to express solidarity with families affected by a severe drinking water contamination crisis in the city’s Bhagirathpura locality. The incident, caused by sewage mixing with the potable water supply, has led to multiple deaths and the illness of hundreds, raising serious questions over civic administration in a city often projected as India’s cleanest.
Upon his arrival, Gandhi first visited Bombay Hospital, where several victims of the contamination are undergoing treatment for vomiting, diarrhoea and related complications. He interacted with patients and their family members, enquired about their health, and sought details from doctors regarding the medical response and facilities being provided.
Accompanied by Madhya Pradesh Congress President Jitu Patwari, Leader of Opposition in the state assembly Umang Singhar, and former Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh, Rahul Gandhi later visited Bhagirathpura, the worst-affected area. Walking through narrow lanes, he met grieving families who lost their loved ones due to consumption of contaminated water. He personally consoled the families of victims, including Geeta Bai and Jeevanlal, and assured them of continued support.
As an immediate relief measure, Gandhi distributed cheques of ₹1 lakh each to several affected families from the Congress party, while Umang Singhar extended additional assistance of ₹50,000 per family. According to reports, the state government has announced compensation of ₹2 lakh to families of around 21 deceased persons, though official figures on contamination-related deaths vary between six and 15. Local residents, however, claim the death toll is higher.
Speaking to the media after his visit, Rahul Gandhi strongly criticised the BJP-led “double-engine” government, calling the incident a glaring failure of the much-touted Smart City model. “People were promised smart cities, but what they are getting is poisoned water and loss of lives,” he said. He alleged that accountability is missing and demanded strict action against those responsible, proper treatment for all patients, and adequate compensation for affected families.
The crisis began in late December 2025 when residents complained of foul-smelling tap water. Subsequent tests confirmed bacterial contamination caused by a leaking pipeline near a toilet at a police check post, allowing sewage to enter the drinking water supply. Over 1,400 residents reportedly fell ill, with hundreds requiring hospitalization.
Rahul Gandhi said the issue is not limited to Indore but reflects a broader national concern over urban water safety. Emphasising that access to clean drinking water is a fundamental right, he reiterated his commitment to stand with citizens wherever governance failures endanger public health.
The visit has intensified political debate, with the state government defending its actions and ongoing investigations, while opposition parties continue to demand accountability and systemic reforms in civic infrastructure.
