A disturbing incident unfolded in Odisha’s Ganjam district on Monday night, leaving 14 people hospitalized after allegedly consuming spurious liquor. The incident occurred in Moundpur village, located in the Chikita area. All the affected individuals, hailing from Karbalua village, reportedly consumed country liquor, leading to symptoms of uneasiness and severe vomiting. They were initially taken to the community health center at Chikiti before being transferred to the MKCH Medical College Hospital in a critical condition.
As of Tuesday, 12 individuals were receiving treatment in the medicine ward while two had been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The gravity of the situation prompted a swift response from authorities. Excise Commissioner Narasingha Bhol and Ganjam district collector Dibyajyoti Parida visited the hospital to assess the situation and ensure necessary medical care.
The incident sparked an investigation, leading to the arrest of individuals suspected of selling illicit liquor. Samples of the liquor have been collected and sent for laboratory analysis to determine the exact nature of the substance and the cause of the illness.
Authorities are taking a firm stance against illegal liquor operations in the area. Excise Commissioner Bhol announced the formation of a joint action team, comprising police and excise department officials, to intensify raids on illegal liquor joints throughout the district. He emphasized the need for stringent action against those involved in illegal liquor business.
The incident has also sparked calls for stricter regulations on liquor sales. Congress MLA Taraprasad Bahinipati has demanded a complete ban on the sale of country liquor in rural areas, expressing concerns about the detrimental effects of unregulated alcohol consumption on communities.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by consuming illicit alcohol and highlights the urgent need for effective enforcement of liquor laws to protect public health and safety.
