In a devastating incident that has shocked Tamil Nadu, at least 33 individuals have lost their lives and over 60 others have been hospitalized in the Kallakurichi district after consuming illicit liquor. The tragedy unfolded on Wednesday, prompting swift government action and widespread public concern.
According to officials, critical patients have been rushed to hospitals in Salem, Tiruvannamalai, and Puducherry for urgent medical attention. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed profound dismay over the incident, vowing strict action against those responsible for the distribution of adulterated alcohol. In a somber statement on social media platform X, he pledged, “Immediate action will be taken if the public informs about those involved in such crimes.”
Authorities moved swiftly to apprehend K Kannukutti, 49, who was allegedly involved in the illicit liquor trade. Approximately 200 liters of the deadly concoction, laced with methanol, were seized following the incident. Stalin has ordered a thorough investigation by the Crime Branch-Crime Investigation Department (CB-CID) to uncover the full extent of the crime.
In response to the tragedy, the Tamil Nadu government has taken decisive administrative steps. District Collector Sravan Kumar Jatavath has been replaced, and Superintendent of Police Samay Singh Meena has been suspended, along with nine other police officers from the Kallakurichi prohibition wing.
The newly appointed District Collector MS Prasanth and Police Superintendent Rajath Chaturvedi visited Government Medical College Hospital to monitor the condition of the affected patients. Senior ministers EV Velu and Ma Subramanian were dispatched to Kallakurichi to provide support to the grieving families.
Meanwhile, 15 individuals have been admitted to JIPMER in Puducherry for further treatment, underscoring the severity of the health crisis caused by the consumption of counterfeit liquor. Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi also expressed condolences and wished a speedy recovery to the victims.
The tragic incident has drawn attention to persistent challenges in combating the production and distribution of illicit liquor across the state. Tamil Nadu Raj Bhavan emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “From time to time, news emerges from different parts of our state about deaths due to consumption of spurious liquor. They reflect continuing shortcomings in curbing illicit alcohol production and consumption.”
As the investigation unfolds and affected families mourn their losses, authorities are working tirelessly to ensure justice and prevent future tragedies of this nature from occurring.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by illicit liquor and the urgent need for stringent measures to protect public health and safety.
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