Kallakurichi Hooch Tragedy Sparks Political Firestorm, Death Toll Hits 58

The death toll in the Kallakurichi hooch tragedy rose to 58, escalating a political battle. The BJP accused Congress of silence and demanded a CBI probe. AIADMK also protested, seeking an explanation from Chief Minister Stalin. DMK countered, accusing opponents of politicizing the incident.

The death toll in the Kallakurichi hooch tragedy climbed to 58 as of Monday, intensifying the political strife with the BJP and Congress trading accusations. The BJP lambasted Congress for its silence on the incident, demanding a CBI investigation, while AIADMK held statewide protests seeking an explanation from Chief Minister M K Stalin.

The ruling DMK hit back, accusing the opposition of politicizing the tragedy. State Health Minister Ma Subramanian confirmed the death toll and stated 219 individuals had been hospitalized, with many still undergoing treatment. BJP Chief J P Nadda penned a letter to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, criticizing the party's inaction and demanding a probe.

Nadda's letter blamed the DMK-INDI Alliance for the 'man-made disaster,' suggesting a link between the ruling coalition and the illicit liquor trade. The DMK, however, announced a one-man commission to investigate and defended its actions against the backdrop of the opposition's mounting protests and calls for accountability.