Toxic Liquor Kills 31 In Orissa
POSTED February 9, 2012 - 15:35 | POSTED BY Neharika Sabharwal
Last edited by Abhinandan Thaman on February 10, 2012 - 15:56
The victims, mostly poor daily wagers from Cuttack and Khordha districts adjoining the state capital Bhubaneshwar, fell ill after visiting Tukuliapada village on Monday evening.
The spurious brew was laced with a high percentage of alcohol and drugs used to treat cough, cold and dress wounds.
The victims complained of nausea, vomiting and loss of vision after taking the medicines.
District magistrate Girish S.N. told Reuters, "They were searching for liquor and since they could not get (it), they consumed it.
"We believe they consumed in excess and substituted the medicines for liquor.”
Death toll rising
The brew seller, Baidhar Bhoi was the first casualty on Tuesday morning. Others died on Tuesday night and Wednesday.
Government authorities fear the death toll may surge further as many admitted in the SCB Medical College, Hospital at Cuttack and other private hospitals are stated to be in critical condition.
Judicial investigation ordered
Meanwhile, the factory which produced the medicines has been sealed. In addition, the police have raided two pharmaceutical companies in Bhubaneshwar that sold the tainted medicines.
They have also arrested 10 people, including eight liquor barons behind the illicit trade. State administration has ordered a judicial investigation into the tragic incident.
The Orissa government has also announced compensation for the families of victims and is providing free treatment to those under medical intervention.
