A devastating tragedy has occurred in northern India, where 17 people lost their lives and six others are fighting for their survival after consuming moonshine laced with methanol. The incident took place in the Amritsar district of Punjab, where villagers drank the toxic liquor late on Monday. According to Senior Police Officer Maninder Singh, the deaths were reported in five villages.
The victims, who were rushed to the hospital after showing symptoms, succumbed to the toxic effects of methanol. Methanol, often used to increase the potency of homemade liquor, can cause severe damage to the body, including blindness, liver damage, and even death. Singh confirmed that “14 deaths have been confirmed, and six individuals are hospitalised” initially, but the toll was later updated to 17 deaths.
Investigation and Arrests
Nine individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident, and an investigation is underway to uncover the entire modus operandi and bring all those involved to justice. Punjab Police shared the update on X, stating, “Investigation is underway to uncover the entire modus operandi and to bring all involved to justice.”
Government Response
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has assured that those responsible will be punished, saying, “The guilty will not be spared.” This incident has once again highlighted the dangers of moonshine consumption in India, where hundreds of people die every year due to cheap alcohol made in backstreet distilleries.
A Recurring Issue
Dangers of Methanol Poisoning
Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. Last year, 53 people were killed after drinking moonshine in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. According to reports, over 2,000 people have died in India due to methanol-tainted moonshine in the last three decades. The government needs to take strict measures to curb the production and sale of such illicit liquor.
Methanol poisoning can occur when methanol is used to lace moonshine, and even small amounts can be toxic. As little as 10 ml of pure methanol can cause permanent blindness, and 30 ml can be fatal. Effective antidotes, like ethanol, can often prevent permanent damage if administered promptly.¹