Have Seven Lives Been Lost Due to Toddy Adulteration in Hyderabad?
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Synopsis
The alarming rise in fatalities due to spurious toddy consumption in Hyderabad's Kukatpally area has shocked the community. With the death toll reaching seven and numerous others hospitalized, authorities scramble to investigate the cause and ensure public safety.
Key Takeaways
- Adulterated toddy has led to a rising death toll in Hyderabad.
- Health authorities are investigating the cause of contamination.
- Special medical teams are deployed to manage the influx of patients.
- Opposition parties are demanding accountability from the government.
- Historical data shows a concerning trend of toddy-related incidents in the region.
Hyderabad, July 11 (NationPress) The number of fatalities linked to the consumption of adulterated toddy in the Kukatpally locality of Hyderabad now stands at seven, with 51 individuals currently hospitalized.
Out of the hospitalized, 34 are being treated at the Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS), while eleven have been admitted to Gandhi Hospital and the rest are in various private healthcare facilities.
Tragically, two of the victims passed away late Thursday, raising the death toll to seven; one of these individuals died in a hospital in Nagarkurnool.
Officials at NIMS are preparing for a potential surge in patients by ensuring bed availability. Specialized medical teams have been deployed at both NIMS and Gandhi Hospital to assist those affected.
The State Health Minister, Damodar Raja Narasimha, made a visit to NIMS to check on the victims, noting that six of the patients at NIMS are currently undergoing dialysis.
Four deceased individuals' bodies have been returned to their families following autopsy procedures at Gandhi Hospital.
Initial findings suggest the presence of chemical adulterants in the toddy, with methanol or chloral hydrate suspected as possible contaminants. There are also concerns that alprazolam may have been mixed in. Authorities are awaiting toxicology results from the samples collected from seized toddy at several outlets.
The individuals affected had consumed the toddy on July 6 and 7 in Kukatpally and nearby regions. Health officials became aware of the situation on July 8 when victims presented symptoms including diarrhea, low blood pressure, dizziness, and fatigue.
Opposition party leaders have visited NIMS to express their concern, accusing the government of minimizing both the death toll and the number of individuals affected.
A BRS leader and former excise minister has called for the government to provide compensation of Rs 25 lakh to the families of the deceased.
BJP state president Ramchandra Rao has demanded a comprehensive investigation, attributing the tragedy to governmental negligence.
He highlighted the kidney failures observed in some patients, indicating the severe nature of the adulterants involved.
The Telangana Human Rights Commission has taken notice of the event and has requested a detailed report from the Revenue Department by August 20.
The Prohibition and Excise Department is conducting an investigation into the spurious toddy issue, having already sealed several toddy shops and detained five individuals.
Since 2014, Telangana has reported a staggering 39,176 incidents related to toddy, with 13,338 individuals falling ill due to the mixing of pharmaceutical and chemical substances or illegal brewing practices.
Data shows that 516 cases of adulteration were reported in the first half of 2025 alone, with 2,964 cases in 2024 and 4,832 in 2023.
Over the last decade, authorities have confiscated 47 lakh liters of fake toddy, with chloral hydrate, alprazolam, and diazepam being common adulterants aimed at enhancing potency.
Point of View
I must emphasize the importance of transparency and accountability in the wake of this tragic incident. The rising death toll from adulterated toddy is a pressing public health issue that requires immediate attention and action from both authorities and the community. Our focus should remain on ensuring the safety and well-being of the public while demanding justice for the affected families.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the deaths linked to toddy consumption?
The deaths are believed to be caused by the consumption of adulterated toddy, likely containing harmful chemical substances like methanol or chloral hydrate.
How many people have been hospitalized?
Currently, 51 individuals have been hospitalized due to complications arising from the consumption of the contaminated toddy.
What actions are authorities taking?
Authorities have launched an investigation, sealed several toddy shops, and arrested five individuals associated with the distribution of the adulterated product.
What symptoms did the affected individuals experience?
Victims exhibited symptoms such as diarrhea, low blood pressure, dizziness, and fatigue after consuming the contaminated toddy.
Is there a history of similar incidents in Telangana?
Yes, Telangana has reported numerous incidents involving adulterated toddy over the years, with thousands falling ill due to unsafe brewing practices.
