Barabati-Cuttack MLA Sofia Firdous accused Mayor Subhash Chandra Singh of neglecting to address the city's rising jaundice cases, citing administrative errors and a lack of responsibility, sparking a political scandal in Cuttack.
Speaking to the media, Firdous stated that jaundice is currently affecting about 20 households in Cuttack and characterized the condition as a major public health issue. She claimed that the disease's development has been facilitated by inadequate sanitation and bad administration of public facilities.
Claims of Inadequate Administration
According to the MLA, there are unsanitary conditions in many parts of the city since drains are not routinely cleaned. She added that drinking water pipelines are being contaminated by drain water, which could lead to water-borne illnesses including jaundice.

In Cuttack, jaundice affects twenty families. This is not the initial occurrence. There were reports of a similar outbreak at Dewan Bazaar. For the benefit of special interests, a certain organization has been given contracts for municipal projects on multiple occasions. Due to the mayor's failure to fulfill his responsibilities, the entire city is suffering, Firdous claimed.
She also questioned the openness of the procurement process, alleging that city contracts have been given to a particular agency on multiple occasions. She asked for increased oversight of municipal operations and demanded accountability.
The Mayor Denies Allegations
In response, Mayor Subhash Chandra Singh denied the accusations and said that the health crisis has already been addressed with the appropriate preventive measures."Every precaution has been taken. The Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) is not in charge of WATCO. In spite of this, we have directed the agency to take the appropriate action. The tendering process does not involve us. Singh stated, "The matter can be investigated if she is alleging irregularities."
Emphasis on Public Health
At a time when people' worries about drinking water safety and cleanliness are growing, the interaction has sparked a new political discussion in the city.
Now that the two leaders are exchanging accusations and denials, attention is turning to the city's public infrastructure and the steps being taken to stop the spread of water-borne illnesses.

As the political squabbling continues, health and local officials are anticipated to keep an eye on the issue.