The Indore Bench of Madhya Pradesh High Court has set up a commission led by ex-judge Justice Sushil Kumar Gupta to investigate water contamination in Bhagirathpura, Indore. This decision came after public interest petitions filed over several deaths caused by polluted drinking water. The court said the matter needs urgent and independent scrutiny. It directed the panel to submit an interim report within four weeks. On January 27, 2026, the state government informed the court that 16 deaths in Bhagirathpura could be linked to an outbreak of vomiting and diarrhoea caused by contaminated water. A committee of experts from the Government Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Medical College submitted a report stating 23 deaths due to the illness, confirming 16 were related to the outbreak. The High Court questioned the scientific evidence and was surprised to hear the term “verbal autopsy” used by the government report. The court noted an “alarming” situation as similar illnesses were also reported nearby in Mhow. According to the court, contamination resulted in serious health risks, especially to children and elderly residents. Petitioners and media claim the death toll is about 30, but official reports show fewer deaths without clear evidence. The water contamination was reportedly caused by sewage mixing with drinking water through pipeline leaks and poor municipal maintenance. The court emphasized the need for a credible investigation, citing the right to life under Article 21. Justice Gupta’s commission will look into causes of contamination, number of deaths, disease nature, medical response, preventive steps, and infrastructure improvements. The commission will identify those responsible and suggest compensation guidelines for affected people. It holds the powers of a civil court to summon witnesses and demand documents and testing. All local authorities must cooperate fully. The state must provide office space and staff for the commission. During the hearing, the government said 454 patients were admitted during the outbreak, with 441 discharged and 11 still hospitalized. Officials confirmed sewage entered the municipal water due to a pipeline leak in Bhagirathpura.