The main accused in the Barabanki hooch tragedy was arrested early Wednesday after an encounter with the Uttar Pradesh police. Identified as Pappu Jaiswal, the accused had received bullet injuries in his leg, during the gun-battle that took place near Amrai Kund area of Barabanki. He has been admitted to the district hospital.
The salesmen at the liquor shop, Sunil Jaiswal and Pitambar were also arrested late on Tuesday. The owner of the shop, Danvir Singh is still absconding.
Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh government Tuesday night ordered a magisterial probe into the incident, including the possibility of a "political conspiracy". The inquiry will be headed by Barabanki chief development officer, an official spokesperson said.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has also announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh each to the kin of the deceased persons.
Death toll into the tragedy has swelled to 16, while 38 others are undergoing treatment at a hospital in Barabanki and Lucknow. Hospital sources said the toll may go up as many others were battling for life.
Locals from Raniganj and adjoining villages had consumed the liquor purchased from a shop in Ramnagar area -- around 60 kms northeast of Lucknow -- on Monday night.
They were rushed to a community health centre after falling ill in the morning, police said.
Commenting on the incident, SP Barabanki, Ajay Sahni, said illegally manufactured liquor had been refilled into the original bottles which led to the 16 deaths. Ten persons who consumed the spurious liquor have lost their eyesight.
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