In a tragic incident in Kallakurichi, Tamil Nadu, 35 lives were lost and over 100 individuals are currently hospitalized due to consuming illicit liquor tainted with high methanol content.
The affected were rushed to hospitals in Kallakurichi, Salem, and JIPMER in Puducherry, where 48 additional doctors have been mobilized to aid in treatment.
Following the disaster, the District Collector of Kallakurichi has been reassigned, and ten officials, including a DSP, have been suspended. The alleged perpetrator, Chinnadurai, responsible for the illicit liquor, has been apprehended, with 200 litres of the toxic substance seized for investigation.
In response to the crisis, the Tamil Nadu government swiftly deployed seven SPs and 1000 police personnel to Kallakurichi. Health Minister M. Subramaniam emphasized the severity of the situation, attributing the deaths to the hazardous levels of methanol found in the liquor.
He pledged a thorough investigation and assured stringent actions against those accountable. Criticism from State Governor R.N. Ravi and opposition parties has intensified, accusing the ruling DMK Government of negligence.
Despite the grim circumstances, the Tamil Nadu government announced compensation measures, including Rs. 10 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs. 50,000 for each person receiving medical treatment in government hospitals. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed condolences and vowed decisive action against the illicit liquor trade. He convened with senior ministers and officials to establish an inquiry commission, ensuring all necessary support and care was provided to the victims.