A suspected spurious liquor tragedy in Madhya Pradesh’s Sagar district has left several people dead and dozens hospitalised after they allegedly consumed illicit liquor on Saturday night. Medical teams are screening residents in affected villages, while officials investigate the source of the suspected liquor. Six liquor shops have been sealed and samples have been sent for testing.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has ordered a thorough investigation and strict action against those responsible for the incident. Police and excise officials are investigating where the suspected liquor came from. The exact cause of the deaths will be established through medical examinations, post-mortem reports and laboratory testing. The incident has also led to criticism from the opposition Congress. State Congress President Jitu Patwari alleged that the liquor mafia was operating without fear in the state. “A few days ago as well, there was an incident involving poisonous liquor there. Across the state, the liquor mafia is continuously operating with impunity and causing deaths.”
Patwari claimed that 15 people had died in the Sagar incident, but this figure could not be independently verified. Authorities have confirmed 11 deaths so far.
“I have instructed the concerned minister and officials to visit the site immediately; we will take the strictest possible action and conduct an inquiry,” the Chief Minister said on the incident.
People in serious condition have been referred to Bundelkhand Medical College and the District Hospital in Sagar. An investigation was underway at the Civil Hospital. The death toll in the suspected hooch tragedy rose to 11 on Sunday. Around 35 people have been brought to hospitals for treatment.
District Collector Pratibha Pal said reports of illness and deaths allegedly linked to illicit liquor had emerged since morning.
