At least 34 individuals have tragically lost their lives and dozens have been hospitalized in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu after consuming illegally brewed liquor, as reported by local media sources. The state's chief minister confirmed that the deaths were a result of consuming liquor contaminated with methanol.
The incident took place in the Kallakurichi district, where over 100 individuals are currently receiving medical treatment in various hospitals. Officials have indicated that the number of individuals in critical condition is fluctuating, raising concerns that the death toll may increase.
In response to the emergency, ambulances, medical professionals, and specialists from neighboring areas have been dispatched to the district to provide assistance.
Following reports of individuals experiencing symptoms such as vomiting and stomach pain, a police investigation was initiated. Subsequently, the chief minister announced via social media that those responsible for the illicit liquor have been apprehended, and action has been taken against officials who failed to prevent the tragedy.
Illegal alcohol-related fatalities are unfortunately not uncommon in India, where many individuals, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, are unable to afford licensed alcohol from government-regulated outlets. The production and sale of illicit liquor, often containing harmful additives like pesticides to enhance potency, have emerged as a lucrative yet unregulated industry.
This recent incident in Tamil Nadu is reminiscent of previous alcohol-related tragedies in India. In 2022, over 30 individuals lost their lives in Bihar due to tainted liquor sold without proper authorization. Similarly, in Gujarat earlier that year, at least 28 fatalities were linked to the consumption of adulterated alcohol. In a devastating incident in 2020, over 120 individuals perished in Punjab after consuming contaminated liquor.
