The death toll from the toxic liquor tragedy in Madhya Pradesh’s Sagar district has increased, with three more fatalities reported on Tuesday. The victims were from three different villages. Currently, 13 out of at least 150 individuals hospitalized are in critical condition at the Intensive Care Unit of Bundelkhand Medical College. Family members of some deceased individuals have alleged that they are being denied access to the bodies of their loved ones.
The main accused and government contractor Manish Lodhi is absconding. He added that Manish Lodhi is believed to be the key operator behind country-made liquor production. Police arrested 14 people, including Rajput organisation Karni Sena leader Chandu Raja Rajput, a village head, for supplying spurious liquor.
Additional police superintendent Jaiveer Singh Bhadoriya said police raided Manish Lodhi’s home. “His employee allegedly prepared the toxic liquor that led to the deaths.”
Protests Erupt Over Delay in Body Release of Deceased Student
The family of Krishna Kumar Lodhi, a student confirmed dead, has staged a protest against the medical college administration. They demand the immediate release of his body, which has not yet been handed over despite confirmation of his death. The administration has declined to comment on the situation.
“In Madhya Pradesh, medicines are toxic, liquor is toxic, and water is toxic. An impartial investigation should be conducted, and accountability must extend beyond low-level employees to anyone whose negligence or collusion is exposed.” He cited deaths in Indore from contaminated water and child fatalities due to toxic cough syrup in Chhindwara.
District collector Pratibha Pal confirmed only 15 deaths, although Banda Civil Hospital and Bundelkhand Medical College health officers put the toll at 23.
