A tragic incident in Tamil Nadu, India, has claimed the lives of at least 34 people and hospitalized over 100 others after they consumed toxic illegal alcohol.
The deadly batch, a locally brewed arrack drink adulterated with poisonous methanol, led to swift and devastating consequences, according to officials from the Tamil Nadu state.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin condemned the incident, attributing the deaths to the lethal mixture of methanol in the illicit alcohol.
“Such crimes ruin society and will be suppressed with an iron fist,” stated Stalin’s office, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Authorities have initiated arrests in connection with the incident, highlighting the ongoing battle against the underground production and distribution of dangerous alcohol in India.
The consumption of such illicit alcohol, often sold at lower prices compared to legally regulated products, remains a persistent issue across the country.
M.S. Prasanth, a senior government official in Tamil Nadu’s Kallakurichi district, reported that more than 100 individuals were admitted to hospitals due to the poisoning.
The state governor, R.N. Ravi, expressed profound shock over the deaths and acknowledged the critical condition of many survivors battling for their lives.
India continues to grapple with the consequences of a thriving black market for potent but perilous moonshine, exacerbated by stringent alcohol regulations in several regions that drive demand for cheaper alternatives.
Methanol, when ingested, can cause severe health complications including blindness, liver damage, and in severe cases, death.
This incident in Tamil Nadu echoes previous tragedies linked to poisonous alcohol consumption in India.
In recent years, similar incidents have been reported from different states, including Bihar and Gujarat, underscoring the persistent dangers posed by unregulated alcohol production and distribution networks.
The Tamil Nadu government has pledged swift action to curb illegal alcohol production and distribution, emphasizing the need for stringent enforcement measures to prevent such tragedies from recurring in the future.
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