A political storm has broken out in Cuttack following allegations by Barabati-Cuttack MLA Sofia Firdous against Mayor Subhash Chandra Singh over the reported rise in jaundice cases in the city.
Addressing the media, Firdous claimed that nearly 20 families are currently affected by jaundice and termed the situation a serious public health concern. She alleged that poor sanitation, irregular drain cleaning, and civic mismanagement under the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) have contributed to unhygienic conditions.
The MLA alleged that clogged drains in multiple areas have led to contaminated water mixing with drinking water pipelines, potentially triggering water-borne diseases like jaundice. She pointed out that a similar outbreak had previously been reported in Dewan Bazaar.
Firdous further questioned the transparency of the municipal tendering process, alleging that a particular agency has repeatedly secured civic contracts. She claimed that vested interests were being served at the cost of public health and demanded accountability and scrutiny of the civic administration’s functioning.
According to her, repeated lapses in sanitation management have put the entire city at risk, and stronger oversight is needed to prevent further outbreaks.
Responding to the charges, Mayor Subhash Chandra Singh rejected the accusations and asserted that preventive measures had already been implemented. He clarified that WATCO does not fall under the jurisdiction of the CMC but added that instructions had still been issued to concerned agencies to take necessary action.
The Mayor also stated that the CMC is not directly involved in the tendering process and suggested that any allegations of irregularities could be formally investigated.
The exchange of allegations has intensified political tensions in Cuttack at a time when residents are increasingly concerned about sanitation standards and drinking water safety.
As the blame game continues, focus has shifted to the effectiveness of civic infrastructure, drainage management, and water supply systems in preventing further spread of water-borne diseases.
Health and municipal authorities are expected to closely monitor the situation in the coming days as the debate over accountability and public health measures unfolds.
