On Thursday, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin announced compensation for the families of those who died and individuals receiving medical care following the Kallakurichi hooch tragedy. The incident, which occurred in the southern state, claimed the lives of 34 individuals who consumed ‘methanol-laced arrack.’
He declared a compensation of ₹10 lakh for the families of the 34 victims who perished from consuming the illicit liquor. Moreover, ₹50,000 will be extended to those presently undergoing hospital treatment.
Stalin instructed the State Home Secretary and Director General of Police to prepare a report on the Hooch tragedy. Additionally, he mandated the establishment of a one-man commission, headed by retired Madras High Court Judge B Gokuldas, to propose preventive measures and investigate the circumstances leading to the deaths in Kallakurichi.
‘We are concerned about this issue. The government assures that such incidents will not occur again in the future. We will definitely address this matter tomorrow in the State Assembly,’ stated K. Selvaperunthagai, State Congress President.
Tamil Nadu Congress MLA EVKS Elangovan stated, ‘Deaths due to illicit liquor have been a longstanding issue, predating even independence. The recent tragedy in Kallkurichi underscores the urgency to intensify efforts against such practices. I commend the CM’s decision to transfer the Collector and SP. I urge the CM to extend rigorous searches to other districts to root out illicit liquor operations, ensure those responsible are apprehended, and face appropriate legal consequences.’
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BJP Mahila Morcha national president and party MLA Vanathi Srinivasan criticized the administration, stating, ‘This is not the first time such a tragic incident has occurred in Tamil Nadu; it is the second major incident in a short period. The BJP is deeply concerned about drug-related issues exacerbated by the operation of TASMAC shops despite such tragedies.’
Union Minister L Murugan expressed dismay, saying, ‘The news from Tamil Nadu about the illicit liquor case in Kallkurichi, resulting in over 30 deaths and more than 70 people hospitalized, is shocking. The state government and CM MK Stalin have failed to control officers and curb the illicit liquor trade. Similar incidents occurred last year nearby, with no decisive action taken. This continuous failure is causing innocent lives to be lost. Minister S. Muthusamy should resign as he is unfit for office, and the CM must answer to the public.’
The division bench of Madras High Court, including Justices D Krishnakumar and K Kumaresh Babu, has scheduled an urgent hearing for tomorrow, June 21, to address a petition filed by AIADMK advocates concerning the Kallakurichi illicit liquor tragedy.
