Election Commission seeks report on Sangrur hooch tragedy, death toll rises to 20

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken swift action in response to the tragic hooch incident in Sangrur, Punjab, by demanding an immediate report from the state’s chief secretary and director general of police through the Punjab chief electoral officer (CEO).

According to information provided by the EC, the death toll has risen to approximately 20 people, with an additional 20 individuals undergoing treatment in various hospitals across Sangrur and Patiala districts.

The Punjab CEO has initiated communication with the chief secretary and DGP, urging them to furnish both a preliminary and detailed report on the incident without delay to inform the EC about the situation.

Among the victims, 16 have tragically lost their lives allegedly due to consuming spurious liquor in Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s home district of Sangrur. Meanwhile, 17 others remain hospitalized in Sangrur and Patiala, under close observation.

Dr. Kartar Singh, the civil surgeon of Sangrur, confirmed the current status of patients, with seven still admitted in Sangrur, five in Government Medical College, Patiala, and two opting for private hospitals against medical advice.

The deceased individuals hail from various villages, including Gujran, Tibbi Ravidaspura, and Sunam constituency, reflecting the widespread impact of the tragedy. The incident has sparked criticism from the Opposition, with demands for accountability and a thorough investigation.

Four arrests have been made in connection with the distribution of spurious liquor, prompting state BJP president Sunil Jakhar to call for decisive action. Similarly, Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring has expressed concern over the escalating death toll and urged the intervention of Sangrur police.

Meanwhile, the Pendu Mazdoor Union (Krantikari) staged a protest outside the deputy commissioner’s office, demanding justice and questioning the availability of spurious liquor in the Chief Minister’s district. As investigations continue and public outrage grows, there are heightened calls for swift justice and measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.