Sagar: An FIR has been registered against 20 accused in Madhya Pradesh’s Sagar district under Sections 105, 3(5) and 123 of the Indian Penal Code and Section 49-A of the Madhya Pradesh Excise Act at Banda police station, a police statement said on Sunday.
Police have so far arrested 10 of the accused named in the FIR.
Interrogation is underway to establish the source and supply chain of the suspected liquor.
The tragedy occurred in the Banda and Shahgarh tehsil areas of Sagar district after the consumption of suspected spurious and illicit liquor.
Preliminary reports have confirmed the deaths of 11 people, while several others are undergoing treatment in various hospitals.
The incident occurred in villages, including Nauraj, Gugra Khurd, Dalpatpur, Patan, Chauka, Chapri and Bamura Bhera.
Several villagers suddenly fell ill after consuming the suspected liquor and were immediately admitted to Banda Hospital, Bundelkhand Medical College (BMC) Sagar and the district hospital.
One critically-ill patient has been referred to Bhopal by air ambulance for advanced treatment.
Viscera and liquor samples have been sent for forensic and chemical analysis to determine the exact cause of the deaths.
Given the seriousness of the situation, the police and district administration have intensified their action.
Sagar Superintendent of Police Anurag Sujania formed special police teams which conducted raids at various locations.
Madhya Pradesh Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar demanded a financial assistance of Rs 50 lakh to the next of kin of the deceased and stern action against guilty.
Meanwhile, Gwalior Excise Commissioner Deepak Saxena confirmed the suspension of Sagar’s Assistant Excise Commissioner Kirti Dubey, District Excise Officer Dilip Khandate and Banda Excise Sub-Inspector Roshni Urete.
In addition, Gugra outpost in-charge Puran Ladia and Banda police station in-charge Rajendra Singh Kushwaha have been suspended.
Deputy Chief Minister and District Minister Rajendra Shukla visited Sagar district and met patients undergoing treatment at Bundelkhand Medical College and the District Hospital.
He directed doctors to ensure proper medical care.
Speaking to the media, Deputy CM Rajendra Shukla said that 11 people had died so far, but those currently under treatment were out of danger.
He assured that the incident would be thoroughly reviewed, an impartial investigation conducted, and the strictest action taken against the culprits.
The administration has stepped up surveillance in the affected areas and appealed to the public not to consume any illegal or suspected liquor.
People have also been urged to immediately report any information about the manufacture or sale of illicit liquor to the police.
(IANS)
