Tamil Nadu hooch tragedy: Death count rises to 25, 60 hospitalised
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Kallakurichi: Officials on Thursday confirmed at least 25 people died and more than 60 were hospitalised after consuming toxic liquor in Tamil Nadu’s Kallakurichi district, news agency ANI reported.
The liquor tragedy has plunged the southern state in grief as officials expressed concerns of death toll further rising.
Kallakurichi District Collector MS Prasanth visited victims who are receiving care in Government Medical College Hospital here.
Expressing shock at the hooch tragedy, Chief Minister MK Stalin said official who failed to prevent the tragedy will face action.
"I was shocked and saddened to hear the news of the deaths of people who had consumed adulterated liquor in Kallakurichi. Those involved in the crime have been arrested in this matter. Action has also been taken against the officials who failed to prevent it," Stalin responded on X.
"Immediate action will be taken if the public informs about those involved in such crimes. Such crimes that ruin the society will be suppressed with an iron fist," he reportedly said.
In a post shared by Tamil Nadu Raj Bhavan, Governor RN Ravi said: "I was very shocked to know that many lives were lost in Kallakurichi due to consumption of counterfeit liquor.Many others are fighting for their lives in critical condition. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and a speedy recovery to those admitted to the hospitals."
Expressing concerns over frequent reports of hooch tragedy in the state, the governor further said: ‘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. This is a matter of serious concern.’