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The death toll in Haryana due to a suspected case of liquor poisoning, commonly known as hooch has climbed to 16. Officials reported on Friday that nine more individuals lost their lives. Bringing the total casualties to 16. The majority of the fatalities, ten to be precise, occurred in the Yamunanagar district, with an additional two deaths reported in the neighboring Ambala region. In response to this alarming situation, seven suspects have been arrested in connection with the case.
This tragic incidents have triggered criticism from opposition parties, including the Congress, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and Indian National Lok Dal (INLD).
Yamunanagar remains the epicenter of the crisis. With three more fatalities reported on Friday alone. The affected villages, including Mandebari, Panjeto Ka Majra, Phoosgarh, and Saran, have witnessed the majority of these distressing incidents. Meanwhile, Ambala authorities have disclosed that an abandoned old factory was the source of approximately 200 boxes of counterfeit liquor. This illicit product was then supplied to some of the arrested suspects in Yamunanagar. Further investigations revealed the presence of 14 empty drums and materials used in the production of the illegal liquor at the site.
Additional Superintendent of Police Himadri Kaushik emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “16 people have died in this incident. We have arrested 7 people in connection with this case and are on police remand. We will investigate more about this…we are also going to various villages and requesting people not to consume such liquor.”
The Ambala police are actively engaged in unraveling the timeline of the liquor production and identifying all those involved in the manufacturing process. Simultaneously, the Yamunanagar Police has established a dedicated Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe into the matter and has already apprehended seven individuals. Two additional suspects have been taken into custody in Ambala for their alleged roles in the illegal liquor production, according to Mullana Station House Officer (SHO) Surender, who made the announcement on Thursday. These individuals were reportedly responsible for supplying the lethal liquor to Yamunanagar.
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The gravity of the situation has prompted widespread concern, with communities grappling with the aftermath of this tragedy. The opposition’s criticism underscores the need for urgent and effective measures to prevent the recurrence of such incidents. As investigations unfold, the focus will undoubtedly be on holding those responsible accountable and implementing measures to curb the production and distribution of illicit liquor in the region.
Authorities have faced challenge of not only addressing immediate concerns but also implementing long-term strategies to prevent the loss of lives due to the consumption of adulterated substances. The unfolding events in Haryana serve as a stark reminder of the pressing need for comprehensive efforts to tackle the production and distribution of illicit liquor, ensuring the safety and well-being of communities.
