Indore District Collector Shivam Verma confirmed that ex-gratia payments of ₹2 lakh each have been distributed to the next-of-kin of 18 individuals who died due to contaminated drinking water in the Bhagirathpura locality. This compensation was initiated following instructions from Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, who emphasized a compassionate approach regardless of differing death statistics. The water contamination crisis, first reported around December 24, led to over 1,400 people falling ill with symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. Preliminary tests revealed the presence of E. coli bacteria, indicating faecal contamination, believed to have occurred due to a leaking Narmada drinking water pipeline near a sewage line and contaminated borewells. The Madhya Pradesh High Court has taken a serious stance on the issue, observing that the right to clean drinking water is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution. The High Court directed the state's Chief Secretary to appear via video conference to detail the steps being taken to prevent water contamination across the state and provide immediate relief measures for the affected in Bhagirathpura. While 18 families received compensation, there remains a discrepancy in the official death toll, with various reports citing figures between six and ten deaths directly linked to the contamination, pending a final analysis by a medical panel. Free medical treatment is being provided to those hospitalized, with approximately 80-99 patients still receiving care. The incident has highlighted significant lapses in urban water management and infrastructure.