What Led to the Death of 15 Labourers from Spurious Liquor in Amritsar?
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Synopsis
In a shocking incident in Amritsar, 15 labourers lost their lives after consuming spurious liquor. This tragedy raises questions about the safety of liquor in rural areas and the measures in place to combat such incidents. Authorities have arrested the main suspect, shedding light on a dangerous network behind this illicit trade.
Key Takeaways
- 15 labourers died from consuming spurious liquor.
- Authorities have arrested the mastermind behind the illicit liquor supply.
- A comprehensive investigation into the liquor network is ongoing.
- This incident is part of a larger drug problem in Punjab.
- Punjab Police are actively combating drug-related issues.
Chandigarh, May 13 (NationPress) A tragic incident has occurred in Amritsar district, where at least 15 individuals lost their lives after reportedly consuming tainted liquor in four villages of the Majitha region, as announced by officials on Tuesday.
The deceased, primarily labourers employed in brick kilns, hailed from the villages of Bhangali, Marari Kalan Therwal, and Patalpuri.
According to Superintendent of Police (Amritsar Rural) Maninder Singh, the primary suspect, Prabhjit Singh, has been apprehended and is identified as the mastermind behind the distribution of the illicit liquor.
A First Information Report (FIR) was lodged on Tuesday under Section 105 of the BNS and 61-A of the Excise Act.
Additionally, others taken into custody include Kulbir Singh, also known as Jaggu (brother of Prabhjit Singh), Sahib Singh (alias Sarai), Gurjant Singh, and Ninder Kaur, wife of Jeeta.
The Investigation Police Officer reported to the media that initial findings suggest all victims consumed liquor from a single source on Sunday evening. Several succumbed on Monday, and locals cremated them without notifying the authorities. The police were alerted about the liquor-related deaths late Monday evening, prompting an investigation.
A government spokesperson confirmed that a comprehensive investigation into the entire illicit liquor network is underway.
This incident follows a similar tragedy in March 2024, where 24 individuals perished in Sangrur from spurious liquor. In 2020, over 100 fatalities were recorded across Punjab in one of the most severe illicit liquor disasters.
As the ongoing campaign against drugs, 'Yudh Nashian Virudh', aimed at eradicating drug issues in the state, reached 72 days on Monday, the Punjab Police reported 6,280 FIRs and the arrest of 10,444 drug traffickers.
Notably, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has directed police and administrative officials to work towards making Punjab a drug-free state.
Since the initiation of the 'Yudh Nashian Virudh' campaign, Punjab Police, under the guidance of Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav, has engaged in various operations including cordon and search missions, nighttime patrols, and raids at drug hotspots throughout the state.
Special Director General of Police (Special DGP) Law and Order, Arpit Shukla, who oversees these operations, reported on Monday that police teams have seized 398 kg of heroin, 186 kg of opium, 117 quintals of poppy husk, 8 kg of charas, 135 kg of ganja, 2.5 kg of ICE, 1.2 kg of cocaine, 23.57 lakh intoxicant pills/tablets, and Rs 8.58 crore in drug money.
Point of View
It's essential to approach this incident with a focus on the underlying issues of illicit liquor and its ramifications on society. This tragedy not only highlights the dangers faced by vulnerable populations but also emphasizes the urgent need for stricter regulations and community awareness to prevent such occurrences in the future.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Amritsar?
At least 15 labourers died after consuming spurious liquor in the Majitha area of Amritsar district.
Who has been arrested in connection with this incident?
Prabhjit Singh, the main suspect, along with several others, has been arrested for supplying the tainted liquor.
What actions are authorities taking?
An investigation into the spurious liquor network is ongoing, and numerous arrests have been made as part of a larger anti-drug campaign.
What is the government doing about drug issues?
The Punjab government has launched a campaign, 'Yudh Nashian Virudh' aimed at eradicating drug-related problems in the state.
How many people have died from spurious liquor in Punjab previously?
In March 2024, 24 individuals died in Sangrur due to spurious liquor, and over 100 deaths were reported across Punjab in 2020.
