In a shocking incident at Mahamrishi Devaraha Baba Medical College in Deoria, Uttar Pradesh, India, a decomposed body was discovered in a fifth-floor water tank on October 8, 2025. The corpse had been decomposing for approximately ten days, contaminating the water supplied to the college's outpatient department (OPD) and ward buildings during this period. The foul odor from the water prompted cleaning staff to inspect the tank, leading to the grim discovery.
Following the incident, District Magistrate Divya Mittal took charge of the investigation. The college principal, Dr. Rajesh Kumar Barnwal, was temporarily relieved of his duties. Dr. Rajni, head of the Anatomy Department at Etah Medical College, has been appointed as the acting principal until further notice.
During an initial inspection conducted on October 7, 2025, the District Magistrate noted that the fifth-floor water tank, which should have been securely locked, was open. Authorities clarified that the inspection occurred one day before the body’s discovery, indicating potential lapses in surveillance and communication. Officials stressed that proper supervision and safety protocols had clearly failed.
The discovery of the decomposed body in the water tank has raised serious concerns about health and safety at the college. Students and staff had unknowingly consumed contaminated water, potentially exposing them to severe health risks. Authorities immediately sealed the affected tank and arranged alternate water supply through tankers to ensure the college community’s safety.
Drinking water contaminated by a decomposed body poses serious health risks. Decomposition releases pathogenic bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, Shigella, and Clostridium perfringens, which may trigger gastrointestinal infections, including diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Viral pathogens such as hepatitis A virus may also be transmitted through contaminated water, heightening the risk of outbreaks.
Studies show that decomposition leachate can introduce viruses and chemical toxins, including heavy metals, into water sources, further endangering health. Contaminated water significantly increases the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and typhoid.
Public health experts emphasize strict hygiene, regular tank inspections, and immediate disinfection of affected water sources to prevent illness and protect communities from potentially life-threatening exposure.
A five-member inquiry team, headed by the Chief Development Officer, was formed to investigate the incident and identify lapses. The team was instructed to submit a report within two days. Authorities are also reviewing the college's overall safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The shocking event has sparked outrage among parents, students, and local communities. Officials have promised strict action against any individuals found negligent in maintaining safety standards.
1. World Health Organization. “Risks Posed by Dead Bodies After Disasters.” WHO, 2019. Accessed October 8, 2025. https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/risks-posed-by-dead-bodies-after-disasters.
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Waterborne Disease Outbreaks Associated with Untreated Water Sources.” CDC, 2018. Accessed October 8, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/67/wr/mm6725a1.htm.
(Rh/Eth/ARC)