AMRITSAR — At least 14 people have died and several others have been hospitalized after consuming spurious liquor in multiple villages under Amritsar’s Majitha block late Monday night.
The incident has affected residents in the villages of Bhangali, Tangra, Sangha, and Marari Kalan, with victims rushed to Amritsar Civil Hospital. As of Tuesday morning, six individuals remain under treatment.
“We received information around 9:30 p.m. that people were dying after consuming illicit liquor,” said Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Maninder Singh. “We immediately launched an investigation and arrested four people, including the liquor supplier, Parabjeet Singh. During interrogation, we identified and detained the alleged kingpin, Sahab Singh.”
Raids are ongoing to locate and detain others involved in the illegal liquor distribution network. Two FIRs have been registered under stringent sections of the law. Police and civil administration teams are now conducting door-to-door checks to identify anyone else who may have consumed the liquor in an effort to prevent further casualties.
“Fourteen deaths have been confirmed so far, and we’re continuing medical support for the injured. The affected areas include five villages in Majitha block,” SSP Singh added.
Station House Officer (SHO) Avtar Singh of Majitha police station confirmed that most victims came from Bhangali, Tangra, Sangha, and Marari Kalan.
Amritsar Deputy Commissioner Sakshi Sawhney described the incident as a tragic and deeply unfortunate event. “We were alerted late last night. Reports indicate several individuals are in critical condition. The government is extending all necessary assistance to the affected families and working to ensure the death toll does not rise. The suppliers have been arrested, and the investigation is ongoing,” she said.
Authorities have vowed to crack down on the illegal liquor trade and hold all those responsible accountable.
