Tragic Hooch Incident in Kallakurichi, Tamil Nadu: 65 Lives Lost

In Tamil Nadu’s Kallakurichi district, a tragic incident involving spurious liquor has resulted in 65 deaths, according to the district collectorate. As of 4 pm on Sunday, 148 people have been discharged from hospitals across the state. Currently, two persons are undergoing treatment in Kallakurichi Government Medical and Hospital, six in Puducherry, and eight in Salem government hospitals, totaling 16 people still under treatment.

Investigations and Responses

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken notice of the incident and formed a three-member inquiry committee led by NCW Member Khushbu Sundar. The committee visited the families of the victims to investigate the matter.

On June 28, a delegation from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), including BJP leaders Anil Antony, Arvind Menon, and MP GK Vasan, met with the National Commission for Scheduled Castes Chairman, Kishore Makwana. They submitted a memorandum urging for adequate compensation and justice for the victims’ families.

Political Reactions

AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, along with party workers, is on a hunger strike demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the tragedy and the resignation of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, citing the inefficiency of the DMK government.