Tamil Nadu: 25 dead, over 60 hospitalised after consuming hooch in Kallakurichi

Representative image

At least 25 people have died and more than 60 have been hospitalised in Tamil Nadu's Kallakurichi district as a result of spurious liquor consumption officials said on Thursday. The death toll is expected to increase. MS Prasanth, the Kallakurichi District Collector, paid a visit to individuals receiving treatment at the Government Medical College Hospital, reported ANI.

According to the report, Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed shock over the incident and stated that action has been taken against officials who failed to prevent it. "I was shocked and saddened by the deaths of people who consumed adulterated alcohol in Kallakurichi. Those responsible have been arrested, and action has been taken against the officials who failed to prevent this," Stalin said in a post on X.

"Immediate action will be taken if the public reports such crimes. These crimes, which ruin society, will be suppressed with an iron fist," he added.

Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi conveyed his condolences and hoped for a speedy recovery for those in hospital. The governor also expressed concern about reoccurring reports of deaths caused by counterfeit alcohol in various parts of the state, indicating that there are still issues in controlling illicit alcohol production and consumption, the report added.

"Deeply shocked at the reported loss of lives due to consumption of illicit liquor in Kallakurichi. Many more victims are in serious condition battling for lives. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for speedy recovery of those in hospitals. Every now and then tragic loss of lives due to consumption of illicit liquors are reported from various parts of our state. This reflects continuing lapses in preventing production and consumption of illicit liquor. This is a matter of serious concern," a Tamil Nadu Raj Bhavan message read.