At least 11 people died after allegedly consuming spurious liquor in Sagar district, Madhya Pradesh, officials confirmed on Sunday.
The victims, residents of Baraj village in Banda tehsil, consumed the liquor overnight between Saturday and Sunday in Nauraj and Googra Khurd villages, located about 30 km from the district headquarters.
The incident triggered immediate action, with the Sagar Commissioner, IG, District Magistrate, and SP rushing to the site. Rescue teams oversaw treatment of patients admitted to hospitals, while seven liquor shops were sealed and samples collected for testing.
District Magistrate Pratibha Pal said several people had fallen ill after consuming toxic liquor, with doctors conducting screenings in nearby villages. Locals were urged to seek medical help if they experienced symptoms such as vomiting, headaches, or fever.
Reacting strongly, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav vowed strict action: “Our government will absolutely not tolerate such incidents. I have instructed officials to visit the site immediately and conduct a thorough inquiry.”
Meanwhile, Congress leader Jitu Patwari accused the state government of failing to curb the liquor mafia, demanding a judicial inquiry and swift arrests. He said, “Madhya Pradesh has been taken over by liquor mafias. Parents in every household are shedding tears of blood against this addiction.”
The tragedy comes just weeks after 13 people died in Gujarat’s Bhavnagar district due to spurious liquor consumption, highlighting recurring concerns over illicit alcohol trade in India.
