The death toll in Tamil Nadu's Kallakurichi hooch tragedy has risen to 63 as of Wednesday, with 219 people hospitalized after consuming illicit liquor. Significantly, the incident has drawn widespread attention, prompting the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to issue notices to the Tamil Nadu government and police chief. The NHRC has expressed grave concern over the violation of the victims' right to life, demanding a report within a week. Many victims, including women, are still in critical condition.
It is pertinent to note that this tragic event is the second of its kind in two consecutive years. In 2023, methanol poisoning in Villupuram claimed 22 lives, and a major hooch tragedy earlier in May 2008 resulted in 180 deaths in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Despite an ongoing CB-CID probe, there are calls for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry, which the state government led by Chief Minister M K Stalin has so far rejected.
What is TASMAC?
Amid this tragic backdrop, the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation Limited (TASMAC) has come under scrutiny. Established on May 23, 1983, TASMAC operates under the Companies Act, 1956, and is headquartered in Chennai. It holds the exclusive privilege of wholesale and retail distribution of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) across Tamil Nadu, as per the Tamil Nadu Prohibition Act, 1937.
Notably, TASMAC procures IMFL and beer from 11 local manufacturers and 7 beer manufacturers within the state. It also sources wine from a local manufacturer and acquires scotch, whisky, and select wine brands from other states. TASMAC's distribution network includes 43 depots across Tamil Nadu, ensuring widespread availability of these products. Since November 29, 2003, TASMAC has also been responsible for retail vending of IMFL, contributing significantly to the state's revenue.
TASMAC to be closed?
However, it is pertinent to note that Tamil Nadu has often considered a phased closure of the corporation, a contentious issue brewing since long. Earlier, last year too the TASMAC has gained renewed attention for several reasons. Union Home Minister Amit Shah flagged off BJP state president K Annamalai's padyatra earlier, where one of the main promises was to replace TASMAC liquor with palmyra and coconut toddy, two locally brewed drinks. However, noting concrete came out.
However, now as the investigation into the Kallakurichi tragedy continues, all the authorities involved in the liquor operations in the state must admit their responsibilities. The authorities must go above the party politics and address efforts to curb the root causes of illicit liquor production and distribution. This will only prevent future tragedies and ensuring the safety of its residents.
