A number of Punjabi communities in the Amritsar district have reported tragic deaths after drinking tainted beer. The latest figures show that 14 people have already died and that many more are critically ill and in hospitals. The government’s jurisdiction over law and order and excise has been called into question, and this awful incident has generated a lot of controversy.
Chaos has already been created in Punjab due to adulterated or infected alcohol. Such incidences seem to occur every few years and, taking that into consideration, it shows to what lengths a fake liquor mafia might go. Most of the deaths, those originating from poor localities, have been due to buying cheap liquor.
Where And How Did The Incident Take Place?
The fatalities took place in villages under the jurisdiction of Amritsar: Tangra, Muchhal, and Adhali Kalan. The victims procured bottles from a nearby liquor dealer. Around 2 to 3 hours after consuming the intoxicants, they started feeling headaches, nausea, dizziness, and restlessness.
Many who suffered more, with their health going downhill after consuming the tainted liquor, were found dead on their way to hospitals. Medical supervision still continues for the people who survived and are admitted to our hospitals. The police and other administrative officers have shut down the outlet where the liquor was reportedly purchased.
What Makes Methanol a Dangerous Substance?
Methanol, a dangerous chemical, is found in paint thinners and fuel and in many industrial solvents. It is against the law to dilute alcohol with methanol to make cheap strong liquor.
Once inside the body, methanol damages the liver, kidneys, and nervous system. It also causes blindness, convulsions, vomiting, and death if consumed in sufficient quantity. Only thirty to fifty milliliters of pure methanol is sufficient to kill an adult.
How Many People Have Been Hospitalized And How Many Have Passed Away Thus Far?
According to government figures, 14 people have already died. At the same time, more than ten critically ill patients are admitted to the hospital. Medical personnel are constantly monitoring the status of many victims, many of whom are still in serious condition.
Low-income people and rural laborers whose daily wage jobs are their main source of income make up the majority of these victims. These individuals bought cheap alcohol instead of regular alcohol, which ultimately caused them to die.
What Steps Has The Administration Taken?
After this incident came to light, the district administration and the excise department immediately swung into action. So far, several shops and warehouses have been raided. The liquor shop has been sealed and the matter is under investigation.
The police have so far detained more than 10 people in this case, including liquor sellers and suppliers. Also, raids are being conducted at other hideouts to break the network of illegal liquor.
Has This Happened For The First Time?
No, this is not a new incident in Punjab. In the year 2020 also, about 120 people died due to drinking spurious liquor in Tarn Taran and Batala. At that time also the government had claimed strict action, but the ground effect of these claims was very limited.
Every time after the accident, an investigation begins, some arrests are made, but the culprits rarely get punishment. This trend will not stop until the law is strictly implemented and awareness is increased among the people.
Role And Accountability of The Government
Like every time, this time too the state government has ordered an investigation and compensation has been announced for the families of the deceased. But this is only a temporary solution. The real need is to root out the illegal liquor network.
People’s trust in government investigations is now decreasing. The question is whether the culprits will really be punished this time or will this also remain buried in files like other cases?
Lack of Awareness in Society
It is important to explain to people in rural areas that risking one’s life in the greed of cheap liquor is not right under any circumstances. Unless people get the right information about the dangers of fake liquor, such incidents will keep repeating.
Awareness campaigns should be run through schools, panchayats and social institutions. People need to be explained how dangerous it can be to risk life for a little saving.
Growing Network of illegal Liquor Mafia
Illegal liquor mafia is selling cheap and fake liquor in every village. These people operate their network in such a strong way that it is difficult for even the administration to catch them.
Political patronage, bribery and administrative negligence are making this mafia stronger. Unless action is taken by reaching their roots, it is difficult to stop such incidents.
What Steps Are Required to be Taken Next?
Strict punishment in fast-track courts – the culprits should be punished quickly.
- Awareness programmes in villages – information should be spread through street plays, posters, and videos in panchayats.
- Regular testing at every liquor shop – every batch of liquor should be tested.
- Any person should be able to complain anonymously.
- Government liquor should be made available cheaply and safely – so that people do not choose illegal options.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: How to identify fake liquor?
If the liquor smells strong or strange, its colour is not clear, or if you have a headache, burning sensation or vomiting after drinking, then it may be fake. Stop drinking immediately and go to the nearest hospital.
Q2: Why is methanol so dangerous?
Methanol has a direct effect on the body organs. It can take away eyesight, damage the liver and even cause death.
Q3: Does the government help the victims?
Compensation is announced by the government, but sometimes it does not reach on time or the processes are so complicated that poor people are unable to avail the benefits.
Q4: How can this be stopped?
For this, the administration, society and people need to work together. Without strict action, awareness and better monitoring, this problem will not be solved.
Q5: Is the option of not drinking alcohol easy?
If you drink it’s obviously not good and hygienic. it would be the best and safest option but those who are fond of it, should buy only from the licence and trusted place.
