Thirteen people have died after drinking spurious liquor in Sagar district of Madhya Pradesh. Deaths from illegal liquor are a serious threat to public safety.
The deaths are being called a hooch tragedy, which means deaths caused by illegal liquor.
The death toll has risen to 13. Another 96 people are receiving treatment, and seven of them are in critical condition.
Police have arrested 14 of the 30 accused so far. Five officials have also been suspended.
Graphic: News Anek, from the facts in this report
Key points
- The death toll in Sagar has reached 13.
- 96 people are under treatment, seven in critical condition.
- 14 of 30 accused have been arrested.
- A magisterial inquiry has been ordered.
Why is the death count being disputed?
Congress leader Jitu Patwari has claimed that 50 people died, but the government has denied this. The toll reported so far is 13.
What is being investigated, and what happens next?
A magisterial inquiry has been ordered into the tragedy. Authorities are also probing a suspected link to Lalitpur.
The deaths have raised questions about an alleged illegal supply chain, methanol contamination, and possible lapses by officials.
So why does this matter for people?
The tragedy shows how dangerous illegal liquor can be for families.
It also raises questions about whether officials acted in time.
