Assam has recorded the second-highest number of complaints in the country under the Jal Jeevan Mission, raising concerns over the implementation of the flagship rural drinking water programme.
According to data presented in the Rajya Sabha, the state reported 1,226 grievances, placing it behind Uttar Pradesh, which topped the list with a significantly higher number of complaints. Nationwide, a total of 18,790 complaints have been registered under the scheme.
The grievances from Assam primarily relate to financial irregularities, substandard construction work, and non-functional tap water connections. These complaints were compiled from multiple sources, including public feedback, media reports, and official grievance redressal platforms.
Responding to the issue, Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti V. Somanna stated that while the Centre provides financial and technical support, the responsibility for implementation of drinking water schemes lies primarily with the states.
Launched in 2019, the Jal Jeevan Mission aims to provide functional household tap connections to every rural household in India. The government informed that over 12.5 crore households have been covered so far, with more than 80 per cent of rural homes now having access to tap water.
However, officials acknowledged that states like Assam face unique challenges, including difficult terrain, dispersed rural populations, and issues of water availability and contamination, which can slow down implementation and affect service quality.
To ensure completion of the remaining work, the Centre has extended the mission’s timeline till December 2028, with continued financial support to states.
The high number of complaints from Assam highlights the need for improved monitoring, quality control, and timely grievance redressal to ensure the scheme achieves its intended goals on the ground.
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