Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman strongly criticized the INDIA bloc for the tragic hooch incident in Tamil Nadu’s Kallakurichi on June 23. She condemned the loss of 56 lives, predominantly from the scheduled caste, with over 200 still hospitalized in critical condition. Sitharaman expressed shock over Congress`s silence, pointing out the availability of licensed liquor from government shops while illicit, chemical-based liquor operates in Kalakurchi. She questioned the absence of statements from Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, accusing them of neglecting Tamil Nadu`s people, especially the scheduled castes. Sitharaman demanded a CBI investigation, highlighting Congress`s apparent indifference.