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MP: 10 dead, 25 hospitalised after alleged spurious liquor consumption in Sagar
Ten people died and over 25 were hospitalised after alleged spurious liquor consumption in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, with six in serious condition.
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At least 10 people died and around 25 were hospitalised after allegedly consuming spurious liquor in Baraj village of Madhya Pradesh’s Sagar district on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday, prompting the district administration to order a magisterial inquiry.
“A group of people from Baraj village consumed liquor on Saturday night. Their condition deteriorated soon after and they complained of nausea and vomiting. They were rushed to hospital where five were declared dead. Six others are in serious condition and are undergoing treatment,” Superintendent of Police Anurag Sujania said.
“Prima facie, the cause of death appears to be poisoning, but we are awaiting the autopsy report for confirmation. A case has been registered and investigation is underway,” the SP added.
A team from the excise department also reached the village and seized liquor bottles from a local vend for forensic examination.
Also read: Gujarat spurious liquor case death toll rises to 13; three remain hospitalised
Chief medical and health officer Devesh Pateriya said, “The first death was reported on Saturday evening and nine people died on Sunday morning. The patients are reaching from three-four villages of the district. As many as 25 people reached civil hospital and referred to medical college in Sagar.”
District collector Pratibha Pal said, “Following deaths caused by the consumption of spurious liquor in Nauraj and Googra Khurd villages of the Banda block in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, officials met with the affected families and reviewed the medical care being provided to patients admitted to the hospital.
The administration has appealed to anyone who has consumed the liquor and is experiencing symptoms such as vomiting, headache, or fever to visit the nearest health center immediately for a check-up as a precaution.”
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav ordered an inquiry. “The news of deaths caused by alcohol consumption in the Banda-Shahgarh area of Sagar district is extremely tragic and unfortunate. I have directed the minister in-charge and the officials to conduct an immediate inquiry and take strict action against those responsible. No one found guilty in this matter will be spared,” he said.
The incident comes days after a licensed liquor contractor had lodged a complaint with the Excise Office alleging the sale of counterfeit liquor branded as ‘Bombay Whisky’ in the area. Four days ago, during an excise department meeting, licensed contractors had raised strong objections over the alleged supply of illicit and spurious liquor in the district.
The collector has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident.
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