The Madhya Pradesh government told the Indore bench that seven people, including a five-month-old infant, died amid vomiting and diarrhoea in Bhagirathpura, without naming the disease. A 158 page report was placed before Justices Vijay Kumar Shukla and Alok Awasthi.
Taking serious note of deaths caused by contaminated drinking water in Indore, the Madhya Pradesh High Court has directed the Chief Secretary to appear via video conferencing and explain steps taken to prevent similar incidents across the State. The Court termed the issue a public health emergency and said the right to life under Article 21 includes access to safe and clean drinking water.
The Madhya Pradesh High Court pulled up the state government for an “insensitive” response to deaths and illness caused by contaminated water in Indore’s Bhagirathpura area. The court has directed the MP Chief Secretary to appear via video conference on January 15 as it examines possible criminal or civil liability.
After eight deaths and nearly 200 hospitalisations due to contaminated water in Indore, the Madhya Pradesh High Court has directed civic authorities to ensure clean drinking water in all areas. The Court has also sought a detailed status report from the State and municipal officials on the cause of contamination and remedial measures.