In a tragic incident in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, at least 34 people have died, and over 100 have been hospitalized after consuming toxic bootleg alcohol, officials reported on Thursday.
The victims consumed locally brewed arrack, which was laced with poisonous methanol. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin confirmed the presence of methanol, a highly toxic substance often used as antifreeze, in the deadly concoction. Methanol can cause severe health issues such as blindness, liver damage, and even death when ingested in small quantities.
Stalin announced that arrests have been made in connection with the deaths. He emphasized the gravity of the crime, stating that such actions “ruin society and will be suppressed with an iron fist.” Additionally, the Chief Minister’s office released a statement highlighting the government’s commitment to cracking down on the illegal alcohol trade.
In response to the incident, authorities have suspended a senior police official and ten members of the state’s prohibition enforcement wing for negligence. This enforcement wing is responsible for preventing the smuggling of illicit alcohol in Tamil Nadu. The suspension aims to address and rectify the lapses in oversight that contributed to this tragedy.
