Amritsar Hooch Tragedy: The Punjab government is facing a fresh crisis after 14 villagers died and nearly 10 others were hospitalized due to the consumption of tainted alcohol in the Majitha block of Amritsar district. The incident has reignited concerns over the spread of illegal liquor and gaps in regulatory oversight.
The deceased belonged to Bhangali Kalan, Thariewal, Sangha, and Marari Kalan, where police say a single batch of spurious liquor was distributed on Sunday evening. Many of the victims died within hours, with some reportedly cremated by their families in secrecy.
Amritsar Deputy Commissioner Sakshi Sawhney confirmed the death toll during a visit to Amritsar Civil Hospital, expressing concern that the number of casualties may grow. She said emergency medical care was being provided to the survivors, several of whom are in critical condition.
On Amritsar Hooch Tragedy, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann stated “Sad news has been received that many people have died due to drinking poisonous liquor in some villages around Majitha. These murderers of innocent people will not be spared at any cost. These are not deaths, these are murders. These culprits who have spread chaos in people’s homes with poisonous liquor will be given the strictest punishment according to the law. I pray to God for the spiritual peace of the departed souls. The government stands with the families and every possible help will be provided.
According to police reports, the alcohol was traced to suppliers based in Rajasansi. Two main accused, Prabhjit Singh and Sahib Singh, have been arrested, along with four accomplices. The police have lodged two formal FIRs, and investigations have begun into interstate supply networks possibly linked to the toxic batch.
A Punjab government spokesperson stated that multiple teams are being dispatched to track down the root of the supply chain. The tragedy has drawn comparisons to the 2020 hooch disaster, which claimed over 130 lives in three districts, including Amritsar.
The latest incident has fueled public outrage and demands for stricter enforcement, community vigilance, and rapid reforms in controlling the black-market liquor trade.
