The death toll from the illicit liquor incident in Kallakurichi, Tamil Nadu, has increased to 58, according to district administration updates on Monday. A total of 156 individuals are receiving treatment in various government hospitals across the state, including 110 at the Kallakurichi Government Medical College, 12 in Puducherry, 20 in Salem, and four in Viluppuram.
Hospital discharges and fatalities
Seven individuals, including five men and two women, have been discharged after receiving treatment. Fatalities are distributed as follows: 32 at the Kallakurichi Government Medical College and Hospital, 18 at the Government Mohan Kumaramangalam Medical College and Hospital in Salem, four at the Government Villupuram Medical College and Hospital, and three at the Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER) in Puducherry.
Government support for affected families
Chief Minister MK Stalin announced that the state government would cover all educational and hostel expenses for children orphaned by the tragedy. Children who lost both parents will receive Rs 5000 monthly assistance until age 18, and Rs 5 lakh will be deposited as a fixed deposit in their names. For those who lost one parent, Rs 3 lakh will be deposited. These children will also receive priority in all government welfare schemes.
Ongoing investigation and arrests
The CB-CID of Tamil Nadu police, led by SP Shantharam, has initiated an investigation into the tragedy. So far, seven individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident, according to the Kallakurichi Collector.
Kamal Haasan visits victims
Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) chief Kamal Haasan visited victims of the Kallakurichi illicit liquor case on Sunday, urging caution among those affected. He stated that the victims had been careless with their drinking habits and emphasised the need for moderation and health awareness. Haasan also called for the establishment of psychiatric centers to counsel and rehabilitate individuals struggling with alcohol abuse.
Rising casualties and government response
The incident has sparked a significant backlash against the ruling DMK, prompting discussions in the Tamil Nadu Assembly about the state's illicit liquor supply.
Political and law enforcement actions
Leader of Opposition Edapaddi Palanisamy criticised the assembly's handling of the case, describing it as a "murder of democracy." In response to the tragedy, Tamil Nadu police have intensified their crackdown on illicit liquor, seizing and destroying at least 250 litres of hooch in the Tiruchirapalli district.
Government support and judicial inquiry
Chief Minister MK Stalin announced that the government would cover education and hostel expenses for children who lost their parents in the tragedy. Additionally, a judicial inquiry led by retired Madras High Court judge Justice B Gokuldas has been ordered, with a report expected within three months. Seven individuals have been arrested in connection with the case, and the CB-CID branch of Tamil Nadu police is conducting the investigation.
Meanwhile, DMK leader TKS Elangovan said, "They (opposition) are trying to politicise this. They want to take advantage in the Vikravandi (Tamil Nadu Assembly constituency) by-election that's why they are shouting like this. This government is taking many steps. CM had made a statement in the assembly. He has given a statement about what steps the government has taken in this regard and how many people were suspended and transferred... They have appointed a commission to inquire into these things, but the other party wants to take advantage of this situation. They are politicising it..."
Also read | Death count in Kallakurichi hooch tragedy rises to 53, confirms District Collector
