33 killed & more than 109 hospitalised after consuming illicit liquor in Tamil Nadu

In Tamil Nadu, 33 people died and more than 109 are undergoing treatment at various hospitals following a hooch tragedy in Kallakurichi. Those who fell ill after consuming spurious liquor yesterday have been hospitalised at various hospitals in Kallakurichi, Salem and JIPMER in Puducherry. An additional number of 48 doctors have been called to assist the district hospitals in treating the affected. The District Collector of Kallakurichi, where the incident happened, has been transferred and ten other officials including DSP have been suspended. The accused bootlegger Chinnadurai has been arrested and 200 litres of illicit liquor has been seized from him and sent for examination.

The state government has moved seven SPs and 1000 policemen to Kallakurichi.

Speaking to the media at Kallakurichi last night, Tamil Nadu Health Minister, M. Subramaniam said,  the deaths occurred because of the high methanol content in the liquor. He said a high-level inquiry has been ordered into the tragedy. The Minister said that the government would take strong action against those involved in such criminal activity.  

Our correspondent reports that the accused Chinnadurai has 70 cases filed against him.

State Governor R.N.Ravi and opposition parties have criticized and blamed the ruling DMK Government for being lethargic on the issue.