Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Thursday announced ex-gratia for the families of those who lost their lives and those currently undergoing treatment in the Kallakurichi hooch tragedy. This announcement comes after 34 people died in the southern state due to the consumption of methanol-mixed arrack. Stalin declared a compensation of ₹10 lakh for the families of the 34 victims who succumbed to the illicit liquor poisoning. Additionally, ₹50,000 will be provided to individuals currently receiving hospital treatment.
The Chief Minister also directed the state Home Secretary and Director General of Police to submit a report on the Hooch tragedy. He further instructed officials to notify a one-man commission, led by retired Madras High Court Judge B Gokuldas, to investigate the reasons behind the Kallakurichi deaths and recommend measures to prevent such incidents from recurring.
State Congress President K. Selvaperunthagai expressed concern over the incident, stating, “…We are worried about this. In future, this will not happen again, the government assures. Tomorrow we are definitely going to discuss this (in the State Assembly).”
Tamil Nadu Congress MLA EVKS Elangovan acknowledged the historical prevalence of illicit liquor deaths, highlighting the need for stringent measures to curb such occurrences. He praised the CM’s decision to remove the Collector and SP and requested further intensive searches in other districts to prevent similar tragedies. He also advocated for stringent punishment for those involved in illicit liquor operations.
BJP Mahila Morcha national president and party MLA Vanathi Srinivasan criticized the administration’s failure in addressing the issue, labeling it as the second major incident of its kind in Tamil Nadu within a short period. She highlighted BJP’s concerns regarding drugs and related issues, questioning the effectiveness of government-run TASMAC shops in preventing such incidents.
Union Minister L Murugan expressed shock over the tragedy, criticizing the state government’s response and calling for the resignation of Minister S. Muthusamy, deeming him unfit for office. He held the Chief Minister responsible for the incident and demanded answers from the government.
The Madras High Court division bench, comprising Justices D Krishnakumar and K Kumaresh Babu, has agreed to hear an urgent petition regarding the Kallakurichi illicit liquor tragedy. The petition, filed by AIADMK advocates, is scheduled for tomorrow, June 21. (With inputs from agencies)
