Chandigarh: The death toll in the Amritsar hooch tragedy in Punjab has increased to 21. Deaths have been reported from villages like Patalpuri, Marari Kalan, Bhangali, and Therewal villages after several people consumed illicit liquor, the police said.
Sharing more details, the police said that a probe has been launched in the case and nine accused have been taken in the case so far. Among them taken in custody in the case included an excise and taxation officer, apart from a deputy superintendent of police.
CM Mann condoles deaths
Taking to X, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann wrote, “The sad news of the death of many people due to consumption of poisoned liquor has been received in the villages around Majitha. These killers of innocent people will not be spared at any cost. These are not deaths, but murders. These culprits who create a mourning atmosphere in people’s homes with poisonous liquor will be punished strictly according to the law.”
He further added, “I pray to God for the peace of the departed souls. The government stands with the affected families and will provide all possible help.”
Meanwhile, the Opposition accused the Aam Admi Party-led government of failing to control the increase in the production of illicit liquor in the state. They also sought the resignation of Mann. Taking to X, Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa wrote, “Where is the so-called Yudh Nasheyan De Virodh now? @AAPPunjab govt has utterly failed to control the liquor mafia.”
“The CM, who is also Home Minister, is too busy with PR while illegal trade thrives. This is not governance — this is criminal negligence. How many more lives will it take?” he added. Calling the incident a “man-made tragedy” Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal wrote on X, “Illegal distilleries are flourishing, and innocent lives are being snuffed out. Where are our task forces, @BhagwantMann?”
