A shocking incident in Bhubaneswar has sent ripples of concern across the state capital, as allegations of adulterated liquor consumption have resulted in the deaths of two young men and the critical hospitalisation of three others.
The tragedy, centered around a foreign liquor shop near Station Bazaar on the Cuttack-Puri Road, has prompted swift action from the Commissionerate Police and the Excise Department, who have sealed the establishment indefinitely pending a thorough investigation.
According to reports, the incident unfolded in the Laxmisagar area during a local gathering where individuals consumed liquor allegedly purchased from the aforementioned shop. The victims, identified as Biswajit Beura (26) and Santosh Nayak (30), succumbed to the effects of the suspected toxic liquor. Beura passed away four days prior, while Nayak’s death was reported on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. Three others who consumed the same liquor are currently battling for their lives in the ICU of various hospitals. Local residents, enraged by the incident, surrounded the liquor shop, demanding accountability and justice, leading to heightened tensions in the area.
The Excise Department, led by Bhubaneswar Excise Superintendent Debashish Patel, has launched a detailed probe into the matter. A special squad collected samples of the liquor sold at the shop for laboratory testing to determine the presence of harmful substances. Preliminary investigations suggest that the liquor may have been adulterated, potentially mixed with toxic chemicals to increase profit margins.
Patel emphasised the gravity of the situation, stating, “We have sealed the shop for an indefinite period. The cause of death—whether due to adulterated liquor or other factors—will be confirmed after medical reports and sample analysis. We are also working to identify the source of the liquor and those involved in its distribution.”
Local corporator Bharat Lenka, representing Ward 33, voiced the community’s outrage, alleging that the shop was selling adulterated liquor for profit. “Five young men consumed liquor from this shop. Two have died, and three are fighting for their lives in ICU. We suspect the liquor was toxic, and this cannot be tolerated,” Lenka said. He further called for stringent action against those responsible, highlighting the need for stricter oversight of liquor sales in the city.
Intellectuals and residents alike have expressed alarm over the sale of spurious liquor in a licensed foreign liquor outlet, raising questions about regulatory lapses. This is not the first instance of illicit liquor in the region; earlier cases in Baramunda revealed the seizure of counterfeit liquor, underscoring a persistent issue in Odisha’s capital.
The Excise Department is now intensifying efforts to trace the supply chain of the suspected adulterated liquor and identify any individuals or networks involved. The police have also been informed, and a joint investigation is underway to ensure a comprehensive probe. Residents have demanded stricter enforcement of liquor regulations and regular inspections to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As the investigation continues, the sealing of the liquor shop has brought temporary relief to the community, but the incident has left a lasting impact.
The deaths of Beura and Nayak serve as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by unregulated liquor sales, prompting calls for systemic reforms to safeguard public health.
