Tamil Nadu: Key Supplier Of Toxic Liquor Arrested Following 55 Deaths

A key suspect has been apprehended by the police in connection with the toxic liquor tragedy in Kallakurichi, Tamil Nadu. Authorities believe Chinnadurai supplied distilled liquor to Karunapuram, the village where 55 residents tragically lost their lives due to toxic liquor.

The village continues to mourn as deaths are reported daily, with many patients still undergoing treatment following the incident earlier this week. According to District Collector Prasanth MS, as of yesterday evening, the bodies of 29 victims had been handed over to their families and either cremated or buried. Three affected individuals have recovered, but dozens remain in critical condition.

A one-man commission led by retired Justice B Gokuldas has initiated an inquiry into the tragedy and has been tasked with submitting a report within three months. In response to the incident, the state government has taken action by suspending several police officers and transferring the District Collector.

Three alleged bootleggers with criminal backgrounds were also arrested following the incident. Chief Minister MK Stalin has pledged stringent measures against the illicit liquor trade. However, the Opposition has called for his resignation, with AIADMK leader E Palaniswami criticizing Mr. Stalin as “incompetent,” and state BJP chief K Annamalai proposing the closure of at least one thousand liquor shops in Tamil Nadu.