At least 36 people have died and over 60 others are receiving hospital treatment after consuming toxic liquor in Tamil Nadu, a southern Indian state.
The consumption of this toxic alcohol has led to symptoms such as vomiting, stomach ache, and diarrhea, affecting over 100 people in the Kallakurichi district, approximately 150 miles from Chennai, the state capital.
The tainted liquor was found to be mixed with methanol, a toxic substance typically used for industrial purposes, which led to these tragic deaths. This incident is part of a larger, recurring issue in India where illegally produced alcohol, commonly referred to as ‘hooch’ or ‘country liquor’, causes fatalities, as many people cannot afford branded spirits.
“I was shocked and saddened to hear the news…” Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. “Action has also been taken against the officials who failed to prevent it.”
“Such crimes that ruin the society will be suppressed with an iron fist,” he added.
Disciplinary measures have been implemented against at least 10 officials, including the district’s chief administrator and its police chief, as stated by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin.
He also announced “financial assistance” to the families of the deceased.
Police have also arrested four individuals linked to the sale of the illicit liquor and have confiscated 200 liters of the methanol-mixed drink.
Efforts are also underway to identify those involved in the production of the methanol that was used to contaminate the liquor.
