At least 10 more people have died in the western Indian state of Gujarat after drinking illegal liquor, bringing the death toll from the incident to 38, according to state officials.
Key points:
- About 51 people were affected in three Indian districts after drinking methyl alcohol
- Alcohol is banned in Gujurat, which is the home of Prime Minister Narendra Modi
- Authorities say six of a total of 13 suspects have been arrested
Police launched an investigation and made six arrests after 51 people affected in Monday’s incident in the adjoining Ahmedabad and Botad districts of the state were admitted to hospital, in addition to the deaths.
“Some of the hospitalized people, who were in critical condition, died during the night,” said Superintendent of Police Ashok Kumar Yadav.
“They had consumed methyl alcohol, which was almost undiluted, believing it to be liquor.”
The sale and consumption of alcohol is banned in Gujarat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s home state, except for those with a government permit.
Deaths from illegally produced alcohol — popularly called hooch or country liquor — are common in India, where few drinkers can afford brand-name spirits.
Alcohol consumption in India soared during the COVID-19 pandemic, including in the capital, New Delhi. (Reuters: Adnan Abidi)
Industrial methyl alcohol, stolen from a chemical unit, was used to make the spurious liquor, Gujarat Director General of Police Ashish Bhatia told the press on Tuesday.
“The crime has been broken in less than 24 hours,” he said.
“Cases have been registered and 13 people have been cited, most of whom have been rounded up. Further investigation is underway.”
Methyl alcohol, also known as wood alcohol, is not safe for human consumption.
It is used in products ranging from paint thinners to fuels, pesticides and antifreeze, among others.
In Indian states where drinking is allowed, legal alcohol consumption has increased since the start of the pandemic.
Reuters/ABC