A wave of grief and anger washes over Tamil Nadu as the death toll from a hooch tragedy in Kallakurichi district climbs to 57. The illicit liquor consumption incident has left over 156 people battling for their lives in various hospitals across the state.

Here are the key details of hooch tragedy:

• Fatalities: The death toll stands at 57, with 32 deaths reported at the Government Kallakurichi Medical College and Hospital. There are 18 at the Government Mohan Kumaramangalam Medical College and Hospital in Salem. 4 fatalities reported at the Government Villupuram Medical College and Hospital, and 3 at the Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (Jipmer) in Puducherry.
• Treatment: The latest update from the Kallakurichi district administration confirms the grim statistics. A total of 110 individuals are receiving treatment at the Kallakurichi Government Medical College Hospital. Others are spread across Puducherry (12), Salem (20), and Villupuram (4) government hospitals.
• Government Support: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has assured support for the affected families. The state government will cover educational expenses and hostel fees for children who have lost parents in the tragedy. Monthly assistance of ₹5,000 will be provided until the age of 18 for children who lost both parents, along with an immediate ₹5 lakh fixed deposit in their names.

Meanwhile, investigations into the incident are underway. The CB-CID, a specialized investigation unit of the Tamil Nadu police, has begun a probe led by SP Shantharam. Authorities have arrested seven individuals involved in the sale and distribution of the lethal liquor.

The tragedy has sparked outrage, with many questioning the availability of illicit liquor despite prohibition laws. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time. Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and efforts are underway to prevent such tragedies in the future.¹²