Patna: Bihar's Director General of Police (DGP), Alok Raj, announced on Thursday that 25 people have died after consuming suspected spurious liquor in two separate incidents in the Siwan and Saran districts. In connection with the tragic event, twelve individuals have been arrested. DGP Alok Raj informed the media, "A total of 25 people have lost their lives so far—20 in Siwan and 5 in Saran. Twelve suspects have been arrested, with 3 apprehended in Saran and 9 in Siwan." He further assured that strict action would be taken against those found responsible for the incidents.
The DGP highlighted that evidence is being collected based on information provided by the arrested individuals, who have revealed details about the activities of a 'liquor mafia.' Raj stated, "Information about the 'liquor mafia' has been obtained from those arrested. We will ensure that strict action is taken against everyone involved in this network." According to Raj, the Superintendents of Police and District Magistrates of both districts, along with the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) for Saran, were immediately dispatched to the scenes once authorities were alerted. "From Patna, the Prohibition Department Secretary and SP were sent to the affected areas. Evidence is being collected, and stern measures will be taken," he added.
In response to the situation, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar held a high-level review meeting on Thursday following reports of deaths caused by the consumption of spurious liquor in Siwan and Saran (Chapra). After the review, the Chief Minister directed the Secretary of the Prohibition, Excise, and Registration Department to visit the affected areas, gather information, and conduct a thorough investigation into the incidents, according to a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office.
Kumar Ashish, the Superintendent of Police in Saran, stated that the substance involved appears to be industrial spirit, and authorities are currently investigating its supply chain. "The substance is reported to be industrial spirit, and we are investigating its supply chain. Local police officers have been suspended, and the Station House Officer (SHO) along with other personnel have been questioned. If their responses are unsatisfactory, further action will be taken. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has also been formed. In the last 24 hours, we conducted 250 raids, recovering 1,650 litres of alcohol in the district," he explained.
Saran District Magistrate, Aman Samir, noted that families of the deceased must pledge their support for the state's liquor ban to qualify for compensation. Samir told the media, "The families of the deceased must pledge their support for the liquor ban and express opposition to alcohol. If the post-mortem reports meet the necessary conditions, an ex-gratia payment of Rs 4 lakh will be provided to the families."
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