Support Pledged for Affected Children; Political Tensions Flare in State
The death toll from the consumption of toxic homemade liquor in Tamil Nadu’s Kallakurichi district has tragically risen to 58, with at least 156 individuals still hospitalized after consuming the illicit brew last Wednesday evening. This incident has prompted a widespread call for accountability and a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
State Government’s Response and Support Measures
In a heartfelt response to the tragedy, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin announced significant support measures for the children affected by the disaster. Recognizing the profound impact on the lives of these children, the state government has pledged to cover all educational and hostel expenses for those who have lost one or both parents. Additionally, for children who have lost both parents, a monthly assistance of Rs 5,000 will be provided until they reach 18 years of age. Furthermore, an immediate fixed deposit of Rs 5 lakh will be established in their names, which they can withdraw with interest upon reaching adulthood. For those who have lost one parent, a fixed deposit of Rs 3 lakh will be arranged. These children will also be given priority in all government welfare schemes to ensure their long-term well-being and stability.
Chief Minister Stalin’s announcement, made during an Assembly session, underscored the government’s commitment to supporting these children and ensuring they receive the necessary resources to rebuild their lives. “For children who have lost both parents, the government will provide Rs 5,000 monthly assistance until they turn 18. Additionally, Rs 5 lakh will be deposited immediately as a fixed deposit in their names, which they can withdraw with interest once they reach adulthood,” Stalin stated, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the support.
Investigation Launched by Tamil Nadu CB-CID
In response to the tragedy, the Tamil Nadu Crime Branch-Criminal Investigation Department (CB-CID), led by SP Shantharam, has commenced an in-depth investigation. The CB-CID is committed to uncovering the full scope of this incident and ensuring those responsible are held accountable. So far, seven individuals have been arrested in connection with the distribution of the toxic liquor. Authorities are working diligently to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and trace the sources of the illicit brew. The investigation aims to identify the networks involved in the production and distribution of the toxic liquor, as well as any potential lapses in enforcement that allowed this tragedy to occur.
The Kallakurichi Collector reported that the investigation is being conducted with the utmost urgency and thoroughness. The arrested individuals are being interrogated to gather more information about the distribution network and the source of the toxic liquor. The authorities are also focusing on identifying any possible links to larger criminal organizations involved in the production and distribution of illicit liquor.
Political Repercussions and Protests
The incident has sparked significant political unrest in Tamil Nadu. On Monday, leaders of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), including Tamil Nadu Opposition Party leader and AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi Palaniswami, staged a protest in Kallakurichi. They criticized the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)-led state government for its handling of the crisis and called for Chief Minister Stalin’s resignation. Palaniswami accused the government of failing to provide the necessary medication for the victims, alleging that the required Fomepizole was not available despite stocks of Omeprazole, which is used for ulcers.
The protest, held opposite the VAS Marriage Hall on Salem Main Road, saw a large turnout of AIADMK supporters, highlighting the political stakes involved. Palaniswami’s criticism extended to Health Minister Subramanian, accusing him of neglecting the victims’ needs and mismanaging the response to the crisis. The AIADMK leader emphasized the need for accountability and immediate action to address the situation.
BJP Demands CBI Probe
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has also stepped into the fray, with state chief K Annamalai leading a delegation to meet Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe. Annamalai urged for the resignation of Prohibition and Excise Minister S Muthusamy, holding him accountable for the incident. He claimed that 60 lives had been lost and accused the ruling DMK of neglecting the increasing availability of ganja and illicit arrack over the past three years, suggesting that this neglect had led to widespread suspicion and ultimately, the tragedy.
BJP chief JP Nadda further criticized the Congress party for its alleged silence on the tragedy, calling it a “man-made disaster” exacerbated by a deep nexus between the ruling DMK-INDI alliance and the illicit liquor mafia. In a letter to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Nadda highlighted the significant impact on the Scheduled Castes population in Karunapuram village and urged Kharge to advocate for a CBI probe and the removal of Minister Muthusamy. Nadda also called for increased compensation for the victims’ families and criticized the Congress party for its “selective, hypocritical silence.” He urged Kharge to ensure that Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra either visit the victims’ families or speak out on the issue. Nadda concluded by stressing the need to purge the opposition’s INDIA bloc of elements involved in illicit liquor trade, aligning with Mahatma Gandhi’s principles against alcohol consumption.
DMK’s Counter-Accusations
In response to the BJP’s demands and accusations, DMK leader TKS Elangovan accused the BJP of using the Kallakurichi hooch tragedy to gain political advantage ahead of the upcoming July 10 Vikravandi by-election. Elangovan criticized the BJP’s demand for a CBI probe, suggesting that it was a tactic by the Opposition party to coerce individuals into joining their ranks. This accusation came in response to BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla’s claim that the deaths of 57 people due to illicit liquor in Tamil Nadu amounted to “state-sponsored murder,” with Poonawalla demanding a CBI investigation and questioning the silence of Congress leaders on the issue.
Elangovan defended the actions taken by the DMK-led state government, stating that Chief Minister Stalin had already addressed the Assembly, detailing the steps taken to handle the situation, including suspensions and transfers of officials. He dismissed the BJP’s demands for a CBI probe, accusing the party of attempting to pin the blame on individuals and then using the threat of charges to force them into joining the BJP.
The Broader Implications
This tragic incident has highlighted the pervasive issue of illicit liquor production and distribution in Tamil Nadu. It underscores the need for stricter enforcement of prohibition laws and greater vigilance to prevent such tragedies in the future. The ongoing investigation by the CB-CID is crucial in bringing the perpetrators to justice and dismantling the networks involved in the illegal liquor trade.
Furthermore, the political fallout from the incident has brought attention to the broader issues of governance and public safety in the state. The demands for accountability and calls for a CBI probe reflect the public’s desire for transparency and effective action in response to such tragedies. As the investigation progresses and political debates continue, the focus must remain on ensuring justice for the victims and preventing future occurrences of such devastating incidents.
Also Read | Methanol-Laced Hooch Claims 47 Lives in Tamil Nadu’s Kallakurichi
Conclusion
The Kallakurichi hooch tragedy has left an indelible mark on Tamil Nadu, with 58 lives lost and many more affected. The state government’s response, including financial assistance and educational support for the children of the victims, demonstrates a commitment to addressing the immediate and long-term needs of those impacted. However, the political tensions and demands for a thorough investigation highlight the need for continued vigilance and accountability. As the state grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, it is imperative that the focus remains on justice, support for the victims, and preventing such incidents in the future.
(With inputs from various agencies)
