At least 21 people have tragically lost their lives in Punjab’s Amritsar district after consuming illicit liquor, marking the third major hooch tragedy to hit the state in the past five years.
The incident occurred in the villages of Bhangali, Patalpuri, Marari Kalan, and Therewal, located in the Majitha subdivision. Several others were hospitalised earlier this week after consuming the spurious liquor.
Authorities have launched a thorough investigation into the matter. So far, nine individuals have been arrested, and four government officials – including the local excise and taxation officer and the deputy superintendent of police – have been suspended for their alleged involvement or negligence. According to police findings, methanol, a toxic substance, was purchased online in bulk to manufacture the illicit liquor.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann addressed the tragedy on X, posting: “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 mourning atmosphere in people’s homes with poisonous liquor will be punished strictly according to the law.”
He further expressed his condolences: “I pray to God for the peace of the departed souls. The government stands with the affected families and will provide all possible help.”
In the wake of the tragedy, opposition parties have strongly criticised the Aam Aadmi Party-led state government, accusing it of failing to curb the illicit liquor trade and the growing influence of the liquor mafia. Demanding accountability, they have called for the resignation of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and Excise Minister Harpal Singh Cheema.
