Maharashtra Government Takes Strong Action Following Poisonous Liquor Incident

Pune, May 30: The recent deaths caused by consuming poisonous liquor in the Pimpri-Chinchwad area of Maharashtra have sent shockwaves throughout the state. Reports indicate that 17 to 18 individuals have lost their lives due to this tragic incident. Girish Mahajan, a minister in the Maharashtra government, stated that the government stands with the affected families and will take strict action against those responsible.

Mahajan revealed that initial investigations have shown that methanol was mixed with the liquor, rendering it toxic. The availability of cheap alcohol led many laborers to consume it, resulting in this unfortunate event.

In response to the tragedy, the state government has announced financial assistance of five lakh rupees to the families of the deceased. Additionally, the municipal corporation will provide an extra one lakh rupees. Local legislators have also pledged to assist families who lost their breadwinners by attempting to secure employment for a family member to provide future support.

The entire case has been handed over to the CID for investigation. Furthermore, action has already begun against officials who were negligent during this incident. Several police officers and staff members have been suspended, and actions have also been taken against excise department officials, with many being suspended as well. Mahajan emphasized that strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty once the investigation report is released.

The minister also mentioned that the Chief Minister has instructed a rigorous campaign against illegal liquor trade across Maharashtra. He made it clear that no illegal distilleries or liquor operations will be tolerated in the state. If such activities are discovered in any area, action will be taken against the responsible officials, regardless of their seniority.

On the other hand, the opposition has criticized the government for this incident. NCP (SP) leader Jitendra Awhad remarked, “This is a very shameful incident for Maharashtra. I recall a similar incident when R. R. Patil was handling the Home Ministry. He took very strict measures, and since then, all illegal liquor operations in Mumbai ceased. Although there were few such places, there was a time when the number of deaths from consuming illegal liquor was very high. That system was shut down, but now it has resurfaced.”

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