Shillong, August 9: The Karnataka Lokayukta has issued summonses to top government officials to appear on August 24 in connection with a distressing incident of water contamination. The tragedy unfolded in the Kavadigarahatti area of Chitradurga city, resulting in the death of six individuals and the hospitalization of over 180 others.
Lokayukta Justice B.S. Patil, expressing profound sorrow, revealed that a suo moto case has already been initiated in response to the distressing event. He emphasized his concern for the situation and has requested a comprehensive report on the matter.
As per IANS, the summoned officials include the Secretary of the Department of Urban Development from Bengaluru, the District Commissioner of Chitradurga, the Administrative Director of Chitradurga Municipality, the District Health Officer, the Municipality Commissioner, as well as the Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE) and Health Inspectors. These officials have been instructed to provide a detailed account of the incident along with their respective reports at the Lokayukta’s office.
The tragic episode of water contamination was first reported on July 31. Tragically, the death toll has risen to six individuals, with the number of hospitalized persons escalating from 149 to 185, according to official statements.
Local authorities have highlighted that several of the hospitalized victims are in critical condition. Regrettably, the most recent casualty is an unborn child belonging to 22-year-old Usha, who had returned to Kavadigarahatti to give birth at her parents’ residence.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has taken immediate action, initiating an inquiry into the incident and directing district authorities to enforce stringent measures against any responsible officers. The authorities have already recommended the suspension of AEE R. Manjunath Giraddi and Junior Engineer S.R. Kiran Kumar, both associated with Chitradurga Municipality. Additionally, Prakash, a valve operator in Kavadigarahatti, has been suspended by the district commissioner.
Meanwhile, Chetan Ahimsa, a prominent Kannada film actor and activist, has raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Ahimsa has called for transparency and a thorough investigation to uncover the truth behind the incident. He has also drawn attention to potential negligence towards marginalized communities, particularly Dalits, who have been disproportionately affected by the water contamination.
Ahimsa questioned the discrepancies in the response, highlighting the apparent neglect towards impoverished regions and marginalized populations. He emphasized the need for a proactive government approach and demanded answers as to why only Dalits have been affected and have suffered fatalities.