NCW Investigates Hooch Tragedy in Kallakurichi, Tamil Nadu

The National Commission for Women (NCW) inquiry committee, led by Member Khushbu Sunder, visited Kallakurichi, Tamil Nadu, to investigate a tragic incident involving illicit liquor that has resulted in 61 deaths.

Meeting with Officials

The committee met with local police and district social welfare officers. They collected FIRs and interim reports, visited hospitalized victims, and checked on 10 victims’ families regarding compensation and counseling.

Current Situation

According to the Kallakurichi District Collectorate, 61 people have died due to the hooch tragedy. Currently, 91 people are undergoing treatment at the Government Kallakurichi Medical College and Hospital, where 32 have died and 20 have been discharged. Additionally, 10 people are being treated at the Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER) in Puducherry, with 4 deaths reported. At Salem Medical College, 30 people are receiving treatment, and 21 have died. Four people have died at Villupuram Medical College, with 4 still admitted. One person is at Royapettah Greater Hospital in Chennai, and two have been discharged from Sri Sanjeevi Hospital.

Overall Impact

A total of 225 people have been affected by the consumption of illicit liquor, with 136 admitted to five hospitals. So far, 21 arrests have been made, and 44 families have received compensation of Rs 10 lakhs each.