Scuffle breaks out between BJP activists, police during cholera death protest in Rourkela

Tension prevailed in Rourkela on Tuesday after a scuffle broke out between workers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and police personnel during a demonstration over recent cholera and diarrhoea outbreak in the city. Trouble erupted after the BJP workers tried to enter the Rourkela Municipal Corporation office.

Some workers of the BJP tried to scale the main gate when they were stopped by the police personnel present at the spot. The BJP leaders alleged that over 1400 persons were affected due to contaminated water which also led to the death of around 15 persons.

“When WATCO was laying pipelines we had alleged that there was corruption. Subsequently, drain water got mixed with the PHD water due to leakages at 37 places. We are demanding compensation for the families who lost their loved ones,” said a BJP activist.

Nihar Ray, a BJP leader said, “From day one, we were saying the water is contaminated. Neither MLA nor the administration listened. Subsequently, water pipelines were repaired and experts also said that the outbreak was due to the use of contaminated government water. Though the government claims that the situation is under control, there are a lot of people still undergoing treatment at various hospitals.”

Ray said that the party is demanding Rs 20 lakh compensation for each family of the deceased and job to the next of kin. Stern action should also be taken against those responsible for the situation in Rourkela, he added.

Rourkela Municipal Corporation Commissioner said, “The overall situation is under control and over 75,000 ORS packets have been distributed. WATCO has repaired leakages at over 100 places and Jal Sathis have been mobilised to address the issue of muddy water. We have decided to clean up water storage reservoirs and water tanks within 7 days.”

The Commissioner further informed that water and food samples are being tested and no adverse report has been found.