Dehradun. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has taken swift disciplinary action against six engineers after residents of Jyolikot, Nainital district, reported that their drinking water was contaminated. The move comes on the back of a detailed report submitted by the district administration, which held the officials responsible for failing to ensure a safe water supply.

Disciplinary measures imposed

The investigation identified six personnel from Uttarakhand Jal Sansthan and the Drinking Water Corporation who were deemed negligent. All six have been suspended with immediate effect. The list includes:

  • Superintending Engineer (in‑charge) – Jal Sansthan, Haldwani
  • Assistant Engineer – Nainital Jal Sansthan
  • Additional Assistant Engineer – Nainital Jal Sansthan
  • Executive Engineer – Drinking Water Corporation, Bhimtal
  • Assistant Engineer (in‑charge) – Drinking Water Corporation, Bhimtal
  • Junior Engineer – Drinking Water Corporation, Bhimtal

In addition, the Executive Engineer of Nainital Jal Sansthan received a formal warning, with the government indicating that any further lapse will attract harsher penalties.

CM Dhami’s warning to officials

Speaking on the matter, CM Dhami underscored that safeguarding public health remains the state’s top priority. He warned that any negligence affecting citizens’ well‑being will not be tolerated.

“Public health cannot be compromised under any circumstances. The government’s foremost duty is to protect the public interest, and any officer who disregards this will face strict action,”

He further instructed department heads and senior officers to handle public‑service issues with heightened responsibility and to act promptly on complaints related to essential services.

Context of recent government actions

The suspension follows a series of recent crackdowns by the Chief Minister, including a directive that led to the cancellation of admissions for eight candidates in the NEET‑UG 2026 state‑centralised counselling process after fake certificates were uncovered.

Commitment to public welfare

CM Dhami reiterated that the administration will continue to monitor and act against any official who ignores the welfare of the people, emphasizing that the government’s actions are guided by the principle that “public interest is paramount.”