Guwahati: At least 28 people have died after consuming spurious liquor in Botad district of Gujarat, officials informed on Tuesday.
They said that three FIRs have already been lodged in this matter at Barwala, Ranpur, and Ahmedabad Rural.
Over a dozen people who drank the chemical-laced whiskey were also hospitalised. Additionally, a committee has been established to look into the usage of chemicals in the Botad, Banvala, and Dhandhuka Talukdas.
Meanwhile, 14 persons are facing charges in relation to the incident.
Director general of police (DGP) Ashish Bhatia said, “The tragedy has resulted in the deaths of a total of 28 persons. The chemical, which was sold in 600 litres for Rs 40,000, was combined straight with water and ingested by humans.”
DGP Bhatia added that the local police will form a special investigation team (SIT) to look into the situation.
“Three FIRs registered at Barwala, Ranpur and Ahmedabad Rural…Local Police will constitute SIT,” he added.
Moreover, the incident has been noted by Gujarat’s home minister, Harsh Sanghvi. He has also chaired a meeting to discuss the issue.
An official resolution from the state government read, “This is pertaining the chemical misuse incident that took place on 25/7/22 and 26/7/22 that spans over villages of Botad and Ahmedabad districts. Keeping in view the gravity of the incident, the State Government has resolved to form a Committee.”
The committee comprises of IPS Inspector General of Police, (Crime – I), CID (Crime and Railways) Subhash Trivedi, chairperson, MA Gandhi, IAS VC and MD , GSRTC and Director, Prohibition and Excise, Gujarat and HP Sanghvi, Director Forensic Science Laboratory, Gujarat.
The document read that the committee was required to look into the circumstances behind this tragedy and present a thorough report.
It may be noted that the incident gained attention after a number of people were sent to the hospital last night after consuming fake alcohol.
Dr. Rakesh Joshi, Medical Superintendent at Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad said, “13 people from nearby villages admitted to civil hospital, 6 are stable & kept under observation. The other 6 are being treated. As of now, nobody is serious. We are ready to treat more patients.”