Bhubaneswar: Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan has vowed stringent action against all involved in the Chikiti hooch tragedy.
Harichandan has directed Excise Department officials to take all necessary measures to completely eradicate illicit liquor trade in the State, said an official press release.
Meanwhile, the Minister has ordered suspension of Berhampur Excise Superintendent.
During a meeting with Principal Secretary of Excise Sushil Kumar Lohani and Excise Commissioner Narsingh Bhol, the Minister reviewed the Chikiti incident and ordered a crackdown on illegal liquor distilleries and sales points. He also instructed officials to provide special medical assistance to those hospitalized due to the tragedy.
Eight people have been arrested in connection with the Chikiti incident. Statewide raids by the Excise department has led to the seizure of 7,274 liters of illicit liquor and the arrest of 72 individuals as of yesterday evening, with 385 liters confiscated in Ganjam district alone.
The Excise Department has warned that the crackdown will intensify in the coming days, with strict action promised against those involved in the illegal liquor trade.
