14 Dead in Punjab After Consuming Illicit Liquor, Seven Arrested
Chandigarh/Amritsar, May 13 — At least 14 people have died across five villages in Punjab's Amritsar district after allegedly consuming illicit liquor, according to officials. The deaths were reported from the villages of Bhangali, Patalpuri, Marari Kalan, and Therewal. The tragedy has led to the arrest of seven individuals, including the main accused.
As per agency report, police have confirmed that six others are currently hospitalized due to complications arising from the consumption of the spurious liquor. Investigations revealed that methanol, a toxic industrial chemical, was used to produce the illicit alcohol and had been purchased in bulk through online platforms.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann expressed outrage over the incident, stating that those responsible would not be spared. In a public message, he referred to the deaths as "murders" rather than accidental deaths.
Amritsar Deputy Commissioner Sakshi Sahni confirmed the death toll and noted that most victims were daily wage workers. Medical teams have been deployed across the affected villages to conduct door-to-door screening for anyone who may have consumed the toxic liquor. Even individuals not exhibiting symptoms are being urged to undergo hospital checkups as a precaution.
The deaths came to light on Monday night, prompting swift police action. Deputy Inspector General (Border Range) Satinder Singh stated that seven people had been arrested, including the key accused Prabhjeet Singh, along with Kulbir Singh, Sahib Singh, Gurjant Singh, and Ninder Kaur.
Authorities disclosed that Prabhjeet Singh had acquired 50 liters of methanol, which he diluted and sold in two-liter pouches across local communities. Further interrogation revealed that Sahib Singh had placed the online order for the methanol and helped distribute it.
District and police officials, including SSP Maninder Singh from Jalandhar Rural Police, visited the affected areas and met with the families of the victims. They assured full support and assistance to those impacted.
A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Excise Act. Efforts are ongoing to trace and confiscate all distributed packets of the illicit brew to prevent further harm.
