Unclear Causes Behind Seven Deaths in Sagar Alcohol Scandal, Says NHRC Member

Sagar, September 15 (Daily Kiran) : National Human Rights Commission member Priyank Kanungo stated on Tuesday that the cause of the deaths of seven individuals in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, due to a fake alcohol scandal remains unclear. He emphasized the need for clarity regarding the fatalities.

During his visit to Sagar district, Kanungo met with the families of the victims. He later held discussions with district administration and police officials to gather information about the incident, ongoing investigations, and relief measures.

Describing the incident as “unfortunate,” Kanungo insisted that the investigation must adhere to legal protocols. He appealed to the public not to politicize the tragedy, stressing the importance of providing assistance to affected families and ensuring justice for the guilty.

Kanungo mentioned that local authorities have yet to confirm whether the deaths were indeed caused by alcohol consumption. He announced that the government will provide ₹2 lakh in assistance to each of the deceased’s families. Additionally, families directly linked to the consumption of counterfeit alcohol will receive ₹4 lakh each.

Speaking to reporters in Sagar, Kanungo indicated that he would urge the NHRC to ensure that the approved compensation reaches the affected families within two days. He noted that families expressed dissatisfaction with the ongoing investigation.

Concerns were raised by families alleging that suppliers connected to larger alcohol mafias were not named in their statements and that no actions had been taken against them. Kanungo urged the police to identify these individuals and take appropriate action.

Some families also claimed that several agents involved in selling alcohol in various villages remain at large despite arrests made in the case.

This incident came to light earlier this month when several individuals fell ill after suspected consumption of counterfeit alcohol in villages of the Banda-Shahgarh area of Sagar district. Many were hospitalized, and some later died.

Discrepancies regarding the death toll have emerged, with varying figures reported during the investigation. So far, police have identified 33 suspects, with 18 arrests made. The investigation is focused on a suspected network involved in the supply and distribution of illegal alcohol.