"Action to be taken against all; matter taken cognisance of by CM": BJP 's Nitin Nabin on Bihar hooch tragedy
Oct 17, 2024
Patna (Bihar) [India], October 17 : After the death toll from the consumption of spurious liquor in two separate incidents in Bihar's Siwan and Saran rose to 25, BJP leader Nitin Nabin said that the matter has been taken cognisance of by CM Nitish Kumar adding that actions will be taken against all those who are involved.
"Action will be taken against all those who were involved in this. If the CM has ordered a liquor ban, he has taken action in such cases as well. This matter has also been taken cognisance of by the CM," the BJP leader said.
Bihar Excise Minister Ratnesh Sada said that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) have been formed and the culprits will not be spared.
"We stand with the families of the deceased in these grave times... The culprits will not be spared. Officials and concerned police personnel in the area have been suspended... 22 people are undergoing treatment. 3 people have lost their eyesight. SIT has been formed," Sada said.
The death toll from the consumption of spurious liquor in two separate incidents in Siwan and Saran has risen to 25.
Additionally, Bihar DGP Alok Kumar confirmed that 12 people have been arrested in connection with the hooch tragedy.
Saran Superintendent of Police Kumar Ashish said the substance found in the liquor appeared to be industrial spirit, and investigations into its supply chain are ongoing.
Speaking to ANI, Ashish stated, "The substance is being reported as industrial spirit, and we are investigating the supply chain. Local police officers have been suspended, and the SHO and other personnel have been questioned. If their responses are unsatisfactory, further action will be taken. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has also been formed. In the last 24 hours, we conducted 250 raids, recovering 1,650 litres of alcohol in the district."
Saran District Magistrate Aman Samir said the families of the deceased must pledge their support for the state-imposed liquor ban to qualify for compensation.
Speaking to ANI, Samir stated, "The families of the deceased must pledge their support for the liquor ban and express opposition to alcohol. If the post-mortem reports meet the necessary conditions, an ex-gratia payment of Rs 4 lakh will be provided to the families."
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar held a high-level review and instructed the Secretary of the Prohibition, Excise, and Registration Department to visit the area, gather information, and conduct a thorough investigation into all aspects of the tragedy, according to a statement from the CMO.