The death toll from the Bihar hooch tragedy has risen to 25, with more casualties anticipated as authorities continue to investigate the spurious liquor disaster in Saran and Siwan districts. According to preliminary findings, the victims consumed liquor laced with methyl alcohol and industrial spirit, leading to the tragic deaths.
In response, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar held an emergency meeting with top officials, including Director General of Police (DGP) Alok Raj, and senior officers from the Excise and Prohibition Department. The chief minister ordered all senior officials to personally visit the affected areas and ensure strict actions against those responsible. Two special investigative teams (SITs) have been formed to handle the situation—one focusing on the local level investigation and another led by the Department of Prohibition to examine similar incidents across the state.
DGP Alok Raj confirmed that 25 people have died due to the illicit liquor consumption, with 49 more undergoing treatment in critical condition. Authorities have arrested 12 individuals in connection with the case, while efforts to track down others involved continue.
Tragedy in Saran and Siwan
The hooch tragedy has primarily affected villages in Siwan’s Bhagwanpur, Madhar, Khaira, and Koudia areas, where 20 deaths have been reported. Five additional fatalities occurred in Saran. Local authorities, including Saran District Magistrate Mukul Kumar Gupta, have declared that the families of the victims will receive ₹4 lakh in compensation if they pledge to support the liquor ban enforced in the state.
Opposition Criticizes Nitish Kumar’s Liquor Ban
The Bihar government, led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, has come under fire from opposition leaders over its handling of the liquor ban and the rise in liquor-related deaths. The leader of the opposition, Tejashwi Yadav, condemned the government, saying, “Over 30 people have died, and many have lost their eyesight, yet the Chief Minister has not even expressed his condolences. This is nothing less than murder.” Yadav also pointed out that illegal liquor is easily available, despite the prohibition in place.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also criticized the state government, stating that while the liquor ban exists on paper, the illegal trade of spurious alcohol thrives in Bihar. Congress MLA Ajeet Sharma echoed these sentiments, accusing the government of turning a blind eye to the liquor mafia, which he claims has built a parallel economy through smuggling and illegal trade.
Government’s Response
The ruling Janata Dal (United) party defended its stance, with spokesperson Arvind Nishad accusing the opposition of emboldening the liquor mafia through their statements. “The government has always taken strong action against such elements, and we will intensify efforts to crack down on the liquor mafia,” Nishad said, reaffirming the state’s commitment to upholding the liquor ban.
The Bihar hooch tragedy has reignited the debate over the effectiveness of the state’s liquor ban, highlighting the ongoing challenge of enforcing prohibition in the face of rampant illegal trade and consumption.
Stay updated with the latest news from Bihar and India by following our coverage on politics, current events, and more.
Leave a Reply