Tragedy in Kallakurichi: Illicit Arrack Claims Lives, Sparks Political Uproar

At least 34 people died and around 100 others are under medical treatment following the consumption of methanol-laced arrack in Kallakurichi. The incident has sparked a political furor, with the opposition criticizing the ruling DMK. Chief Minister Stalin announced compensations for the victims' families and a probe into the source of methanol.

At least 34 lives were tragically lost and around 100 individuals remain under medical care after consuming methanol-laced arrack in Kallakurichi.

The shocking incident has ignited a political storm with the opposition launching a scathing attack on the ruling DMK government. Chief Minister M K Stalin expressed deep anguish over the incident, noting that such tragedies should never occur. Stalin announced immediate compensatory measures of Rs 10 lakh for each of the victims' families and Rs 50,000 for those undergoing treatment in hospitals.

Beyond the immediate relief, a retired Madras High Court judge will lead a commission to probe the underlying causes and recommend future preventive measures. The state also reported a sweeping crackdown, arresting individuals linked to the sale of the deadly arrack and seizing about 200 liters of the illicit brew. Furthermore, local authorities are instructed to destroy the source of methanol completely.