The death toll from the Indore contaminated water tragedy has risen to nine, confirmed late Thursday evening by the Madhya Pradesh government. The incident, which began on December 25, 2025, left residents of Bhagirathpura sick after sewage water contaminated the drinking water supply. Residents reported the water tasted "bitter" and had an unusual smell.

Since Monday, people from the affected area have been admitted to hospitals across the city, complaining of vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. As of Wednesday, December 31, 2025, over 100 residents were hospitalized. Doctors have stated that the cause of death for many victims was due to dehydration and cardiac arrest, stemming from the sudden increase of viral and bacterial levels in the water.

Initial investigations revealed that a leakage in the main Narmada water supply line allowed sewage from a toilet built directly over the leak to seep into the drinking water pipes. Indore District Collector Shivam Verma stated that initial tests confirmed the water was contaminated but could not confirm the type of bacteria found. Additional Chief Secretary Sanjay Dubey stated that of the nine deaths, only four have been directly linked to the contaminated water based on postmortem reports.

The incident has sparked political controversy, with Congress leaders calling for a forensic investigation, suspecting that industrial chemicals or poisonous substances may have been mixed into the water supply. The Indore district Congress unit is reportedly considering filing an FIR against the Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) and its Mayor.

In response to the crisis, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh for each victim's family. Authorities have halted the water supply, ordered repairs and testing, suspended two officials, and dismissed a PHE sub-engineer. The state government is allocating funds to cover the treatment costs of patients. Five ambulances have been deployed to assist patients, and the government is ensuring free treatment for all those affected. A three-member inquiry committee has been formed to determine responsibility in the matter.