Kallakurichi hooch tragedy: Death toll rises to 42; CM Stalin, actor Vijay meet victims

CHENNAI: The death toll in Tamil Nadu's Kallakurichi district of people who had consumed illicit liquor has risen to 42, officials said on Thursday. The death toll is likely to rise. Nearly 100 people are in different hospitals. Many of them are in critical condition. 10 people are also reported to have lost their sight. Meanwhile, the government appointed a judicial commission to probe the incident. The Commission led by Retired Judge Gokuldas will submit its report within three months.

Four people were arrested for selling illicit liquor. Among those arrested are a couple, Govindaraj (49) and his wife Vijaya. More than 200 litres of liquor was seized from them. Tests revealed that methanol had been mixed with it. Police are investigating the source of the methanol.

Later in the day, the Tamil Nadu government announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the family of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for those being treated in the hospital.

Chief Minister MK Stalin, Leader of the Opposition Edappadi Palaniswami and Vetri Kazhakam President and actor Vijay visited Kallakurichi and met the victims of the hooch tragedy. Stalin directed the Home Secretary and DGP to submit a report on the incident within two days.