Kallakurichi Tragedy Demands Action on Illegal Liquor Trade

53 people were killed, and over 100 others are in critical condition in the Kallakurichi district after the consumption of illicit liquor. The incident has brought light to the illicit alcohol issue.

Reports confirmed that the locals had consumed hooch with a highly potent form of alcohol-containing Methanol. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and raised questions about the availability and regulation of such illicit liquor in the region. Kallakurichi tragedy is highly in talks across the state.

Kallakurichi Hooch Tragedy:

The Kallakurichi Hooch Tragedy is a recent incident that occurred in the Kallakurichi district of Tamil Nadu. The tragedy resulted in the death of at least 53 people and the hospitalization of over 100 others due to the consumption of illicit liquor.

The first case of the news was filed on June 19 against the person Govindraraj known as Kannukutti, his wife Vijaya, and his brother Dhamodharan for selling illicit liquor in Kallakurichi.

Who is Kannukutti? 

Kannukutti, aged 49 and a resident of Karunapuram, is known for selling illicit alcohol. Locals address his place in Karunapuram is addressed as Saraya Kadai (illicit liquor shop). His illicit liquor business initially started near the river bank in Karunapuram. As his business expanded, he set up a tent adjacent to his house to facilitate sales.

In a shocking disclosure to the police, Kannukutti stated that despite his occupation, he himself never consumed alcohol. He further mentioned that his brother would assist in verifying the quality of his hooch as he never consumed it. 

His revelation caused a stir among the people, as many were taken aback by the reported leniency towards Kannukutti, who allegedly has at least 70 cases registered against him in police stations.

In this case, it is said that Kannukutti sold illicit liquor on June 18 in Karunapuram around 7 pm. Locals around the surroundings consumed his alcohol and many people who drank the alcohol complained of severe health issues, including nausea, vomiting, headaches, and irritation in the eyes.

Initial Incident Report:

The Kallakurichi district police received information about the sale and consumption of illicit liquor in the area. The police immediately launched an investigation and conducted raids in several villages. During the raids, they found Kannukutti, and seized 200 liters of illicit liquor.

Government Decision:

In this situation, the state government also announced compensation for the families of the deceased and the hospitalized. The compensation includes financial aid of Rs. 10 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs.50,000 for the people hospitalized over the issue.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, the government has launched an investigation to identify the source of the illicit liquor. The police have already arrested Kannukutti and his family in connection with the case, and further investigations are carried on.

The incident has once again brought to light the issue of the illegal liquor trade. To prevent such tragedies from occurring again, it is important to implement strict measures and guidelines for the production and sale of illicit liquor. 

The public is requesting the government should conduct awareness campaigns to educate people about the dangers of consuming illicit liquor. People should follow the law and avoid drinking illicit alcohol which puts their lives at risk.