Kallakurichi Hooch Tragedy: 53 Dead, 140 Safe, 7 Arrested
The death toll in the Kallakurichi hooch tragedy has risen from 50 to 53, officials said on Saturday. Kallakurichi District Collector MS Prasanth reported that out of 193 patients who consumed illicit liquor, 140 are currently safe. He mentioned, “193 people who have consumed illicit liquor have come to the hospital. Out of which 193, 140 are currently safe, while few of them are on ventilators. Right now, 53 people have passed away.”
Seven people have been arrested in connection with the case, which has been handed over to the CBI CID branch of Tamil Nadu Police. Special doctors were mobilized to provide the best treatment, with 56 doctors brought in from different medical colleges. Many patients with respiratory problems have recovered.
In Tiruchirapalli, 250 liters of illicit liquor were seized and disposed of by District Collector Pradeep Kumar and Superintendent of Police Varun Kumar, based on intelligence input. Pradeep Kumar also spoke with locals about the harmful effects of illicit liquor and made them take an oath not to consume it.
Chief Minister MK Stalin announced in the Tamil Nadu Assembly that the state government will cover the education and hostel expenses of children who lost one or both parents in the Kallakurichi tragedy. The Assembly saw a ruckus as opposition AIADMK members demanded a discussion on the incident.
