A statement by BJP MP Gyaneshwar Patil has sparked a fresh political controversy in Madhya Pradesh after he said that citizens also share responsibility for ensuring clean drinking water. His remarks came amid anger and grief following the death of 20 people in Indore’s Bhagirathpura area, who reportedly died after consuming contaminated water.

The controversy began when Patil was asked whether any special instructions had been issued in his constituency, Khandwa, after the tragic incident in Indore. In response, the BJP MP said that people across cities, municipal councils, and village panchayats should learn from what happened. He added that it is wrong to believe the government alone is responsible for everything.

Patil said that citizens must also play a role in maintaining cleanliness, especially when it comes to water sources. He stated that water tanks and water sources need to be cleaned regularly and claimed that such instructions had been given earlier. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Patil said that providing clean water is part of the government’s commitment and that taps are being installed in every household. However, he added that if there are problems, citizens should come together, inform the administration, and work toward solutions.

When NDTV pointed out that residents of Bhagirathpura had repeatedly complained about poor water quality before the incident, Patil said the situation was “unfortunate.” He added that the Chief Minister was personally monitoring the matter and that action was being taken against those found responsible.

The opposition Congress strongly criticised Patil’s comments. Party spokesperson Bhupendra Gupta accused the BJP of trying to shift blame onto the public instead of accepting responsibility. Gupta questioned whether other basic services, such as cleaning drains or checking expired medicines in hospitals, should also be handled by citizens.

Gupta said that if ensuring clean drinking water is the public’s job, then the government should explain why it collects taxes. He called Patil’s remarks “irresponsible” and warned that the Congress would launch statewide protests if the BJP failed to clarify its position.

The incident has shocked many as Indore has consistently ranked among India’s cleanest cities for the past eight years. Following the tragedy, the state government issued administrative guidelines and announced action against officials linked to the lapse. The incident has raised serious questions about accountability, public safety, and the role of authorities in providing essential services like clean drinking water.