Lagatar24 Desk
Patna: Despite the liquor prohibition imposed in Bihar since April 2016, the illicit trade of toxic liquor continues unabated, claiming more lives every day. In Siwan, the death toll has risen to 20, while five more deaths have been reported from Saran district, bringing the total number of fatalities to 25. Several others are in critical condition and undergoing treatment at the district hospital, as confirmed by Bihar DGP Alok Raj on Thursday. The state government and police officials have taken serious note of the incident, with investigations being launched to trace the source of the deadly liquor.
10 Arrested on Suspicion
DGP Alok Raj stated that the Bihar police are prepared to take strict action, and inspections of affected areas are ongoing. So far, 10 suspects have been taken into custody for questioning. Raj revealed that during interrogations, the names of several liquor mafia members have surfaced, and appropriate action will be taken against them. Officials from the excise department in Patna are also heading to the affected areas to investigate the source of the toxic liquor and the network of those involved in its distribution.
Continued Supply of Toxic Liquor Despite Prohibition
Ratnesh Sada, the Minister for Prohibition, Excise, and Registration, noted that despite Bihar’s prohibition law, large quantities of toxic liquor are still being distributed in the state. He emphasized the need for greater public awareness and urged the people of Bihar to stay away from alcohol. He reiterated that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had enacted the prohibition law to safeguard the people of Bihar, but acknowledged that more efforts were needed to raise awareness.
Five Deaths Linked to Industrial Alcohol in Saran
Saran SP Kumar Ashish stated that the liquor responsible for the deaths in his district is believed to be industrial alcohol. An SIT has been formed to investigate, and significant raids have been conducted over the past 24 hours, leading to the recovery of 1,650 litres of illicit alcohol and the arrest of 37 individuals. Additionally, 20 police personnel have been suspended for their negligence.
Strict Action if Deaths Confirmed Due to Liquor
Saran DM Aman Sameer stated that the district administration is firmly against alcohol consumption, and if the postmortem report confirms that alcohol was the cause of death, strict action will be taken. Compensation has already been provided to the families of those who died.
