The death toll in the hooch tragedy in Sangrampur village, South 24 Paraganas, West Bengal, has risen to 143, with over 60 more deaths reported overnight due to toxic alcohol consumption. At least 50 others are in critical condition in hospitals, and the toll could increase. The government has ordered a CID investigation, and seven people have been arrested for allegedly selling the illicit liquor. Authorities are also searching for the supplier, Noor Islam Fakir, known as Khora Badshan.
The victims, mainly laborers and street vendors, fell ill after drinking the spurious liquor on Tuesday night. Symptoms like stomach pain, vomiting, and chest pain began around 2 am Wednesday. Postmortems showed death due to cardio-respiratory failure from methyl poisoning, though the exact chemical remains unidentified. Local residents destroyed the liquor units involved, and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee promised strong action against illegal liquor sales, while also calling for a social approach to the issue. Compensation of Rs. 2 lakh each was announced for the families of the victims.