Is Methanol Linked to 17 Hooch Deaths in Punjab? 10 Arrested!
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Synopsis
In Punjab, the tragic rise of hooch-related fatalities has reached 17, prompting a swift response from law enforcement. With 10 arrests, including the primary suspect and suppliers, the investigation is uncovering the sinister network behind this deadly trade. The government promises support for victims' families. Will justice prevail?
Key Takeaways
- 17 fatalities reported due to hooch consumption.
- 10 arrests made, including the kingpin.
- Government announced Rs 10 lakh compensation for victims' families.
- Ongoing investigations aim to expose the illicit liquor network.
- Strict measures being taken against negligent officials.
Chandigarh, May 13 (NationPress) With the hooch death toll in Punjab climbing to 17, the majority of victims being daily-wage workers, and several in critical condition in Amritsar district, the Punjab Police announced on Tuesday the arrest of 10 individuals. This includes the mastermind behind the operation, along with multiple distributors and suppliers of methanol, a deadly industrial chemical, as stated by Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav.
The ring leader has been identified as Sahib Singh, while the primary methanol suppliers are Pankaj Kumar and Arvind Kumar, owners of Sahil Chemicals located at Sukh Enclave in Ludhiana. Additionally, local distributors Prabhjit Singh and Kulbir Singh were apprehended, along with local vendors Ninder Kaur, Sahib Singh, Gurjant Singh, Arun, known as Kala, and Sikander Singh, referred to as Pappu.
Fatalities have been reported in the villages of Bhangali, Patalpuri, Marari Kalan, and Therewal within the Majitha sub-division.
The state government has declared a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the families of each deceased and pledged to assist them.
DGP Yadav indicated that initial investigations revealed that the methanol was procured online by mastermind Sahib Singh to produce illicit liquor.
Ongoing investigations aim to expose the complete modus operandi and bring all involved parties to justice, he added.
The DGP disclosed that DSP (Majitha) Amolak Singh and SHO Avtar Singh have been suspended for severe negligence in their official responsibilities, which contributed to this tragic occurrence. Departmental inquiries against these officials have commenced.
“We are united in our sorrow and committed to delivering justice while preventing future tragedies,” emphasized DGP Yadav. Senior Superintendent of Police (Amritsar Rural) Maninder Singh elaborated on the modus operandi, explaining that local distributor Prabhjeet Singh obtained methanol in 50-litre jerry cans from kingpin Sahib Singh.
During interrogation, it was revealed that he ordered the methanol from the Ludhiana-based chemical company, Sahil Chemicals, through an online platform. The SSP also noted that another shipment of methanol, ordered by the kingpin from a firm based in Delhi, is currently in transit.
Excise and police teams are on standby to intercept and seize the consignment upon its arrival, he stated, assuring that all individuals involved in this operation will face arrest. Two cases have been filed under Sections 105 and 103 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Section 61-A of the Excise Act, and Section 3 of the SC/ST Act.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who visited the villages impacted by the hooch tragedy, asserted that those accountable for the deaths of innocent lives will face consequences. “These are not mere deaths; they are murders,” he posted on X.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the profound tragedy that has struck Punjab due to the hooch crisis. The loss of life, particularly among vulnerable daily-wagers, underscores the urgent need for stringent regulations and enforcement against illegal alcohol production. Our commitment is to report objectively while advocating for justice and preventive measures to avert future incidents.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the hooch deaths in Punjab?
The hooch deaths were caused by the consumption of spurious liquor that contained methanol, a toxic industrial chemical.
How many people have been arrested related to this incident?
A total of 10 individuals have been arrested, including the kingpin and several distributors and suppliers of methanol.
What action has the government taken for the victims' families?
The state government has announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for each family of the deceased.
What is being done to prevent similar incidents in the future?
Investigations are ongoing to uncover the entire operation, and measures are being implemented to enhance enforcement against illegal liquor production.
Who are the key figures involved in this case?
Key figures include Sahib Singh, the kingpin, and Pankaj Kumar and Arvind Kumar, suppliers from Sahil Chemicals.
