Punjab Hooch Tragedy: 10 Arrested, Including Kingpin; DSP and SHO Suspended
Overview of the Devastating Incident
A tragic hooch incident in Punjab’s Amritsar district has resulted in the deaths of 21 individuals who consumed spurious liquor in the Majitha area. This heartbreaking event has sparked widespread grief and prompted immediate action from authorities. Ten suspects, including the racket’s mastermind, have been arrested, and two senior police officials have been suspended for negligence.
Victims and Impact
The victims, from villages including Bhangali Kalan, Patalpuri, Marari Kalan, Threawal, Talwandi Khumman, and Karnala, succumbed to the effects of methanol, a toxic industrial chemical mixed into the illicit liquor. Six others are currently hospitalized, fighting severe health complications caused by the poisonous brew.
Investigation and Arrests
Key Suspects in Custody
Punjab Police have detained the following individuals involved in the illegal liquor trade:
- Sahib Singh – The kingpin who orchestrated the production and distribution.
- Pankaj Kumar (alias Sahil) & Arvind Kumar – Owners of Sahil Chemicals, Ludhiana, who supplied methanol.
- Prabhjit Singh & Kulbir Singh – Local distributors of the toxic liquor.
- Ninder Kaur, Gurjant Singh, Arun (alias Kala), Sikander Singh (alias Pappu) – Local sellers.
How the Illicit Operation Worked
Investigations reveal that Sahib Singh purchased methanol online from Sahil Chemicals in Ludhiana. This deadly chemical was used to produce the spurious liquor, which was then distributed across the affected villages. Authorities have also uncovered that another methanol consignment from a Delhi-based supplier is in transit, and police and excise teams are working to seize it.
Ongoing Efforts for Justice
Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav vowed a thorough probe, stating:
“We stand united in our commitment to deliver justice and ensure such tragedies are never repeated.”
Accountability for Negligence
Suspension of Police Officials
The following officials have been suspended for failing to prevent the illegal liquor trade:
- Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Amolak Singh, Majitha.
- Station House Officer (SHO) Sub-Inspector Avtar Singh, Majitha Police Station.
Departmental inquiries have been launched to investigate their lapses further.
Legal Actions Initiated
Two cases have been registered at Majitha and Kathunangal police stations under:
- Sections 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) & 103 (murder) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
- Excise Act provisions.
- Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, as some victims belonged to marginalized communities.
Community Response and Government Action
Grief and Demands for Justice
Heartbroken families gathered at a gurdwara in Marari Kalan village to mourn and meet Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who assured strict action. The tragedy has united communities in their call for accountability and prevention.
Steps to Prevent Future Tragedies
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Maninder Singh, Amritsar Rural, emphasized proactive measures:
“We are targeting illegal liquor networks and closely monitoring chemical suppliers to stop such incidents.”
Police are conducting raids and strengthening oversight to dismantle the illicit liquor supply chain.
Conclusion
The Punjab hooch tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by illegal liquor rackets. With 10 arrests, including the kingpin, and the suspension of negligent officials, authorities are taking decisive steps to address the crisis. As investigations continue, the focus remains on delivering justice to the victims and implementing stricter measures to prevent future loss of life. This incident underscores the urgent need for robust enforcement and vigilance to protect communities from such preventable tragedies.