At least 12 people have died and more than 25 have been taken to hospital after allegedly consuming suspected spurious liquor in Madhya Pradesh’s Sagar district, prompting the administration to launch an investigation and deploy medical teams across the affected villages Sunday.
The deaths were reported from villages in the Banda area, including Ghughra, Jalampur and Baraj, after several residents who had consumed liquor Saturday night began falling ill. The victims were initially taken to the Civil Hospital in Banda, while those requiring further treatment were referred to Sagar. Sagar Chief Medical and Health Officer Dr Devesh Pateria confirmed nine deaths.
Health teams deployed
Following the deaths, health teams were deployed across the affected villages to identify others who may have consumed liquor from the same source. The administration has asked residents who drank alcohol during the past 24 to 48 hours to seek medical attention immediately if they develop unusual symptoms.
Sagar Collector Pratibha Pal and Superintendent of Police Anurag Sujania reached the affected area along with senior officials and reviewed the situation. They also visited the hospital in Banda to assess treatment arrangements for those admitted.
The bodies of the deceased have been sent for post-mortem examinations. Officials said the precise cause of the deaths would be established after the reports are received.
Probe into liquor source
Police and Excise Department teams have begun investigating where the liquor consumed by the victims was purchased and whether it was illicit or contaminated. Authorities are also trying to identify those involved in its manufacture and distribution.
While preliminary information has linked the deaths to suspected spurious liquor, officials have said the cause has not yet been conclusively established. Samples are expected to be examined as part of the investigation.
The incident has put the district administration on alert, with officials monitoring the affected villages for further cases. Medical teams have been instructed to ensure that anyone displaying symptoms receives treatment without delay as the investigation into the source of the suspected liquor continues.