Tamil Nadu has been shocked by the death of 42 people who drank fake liquor mixed with methanol in Kallakurichi Karunapuram. More than 100 people are ill and are being treated in hospitals. Hospital sources say that the condition of some is critical.
In this context, Vishik leader Thirumavalavan, who went to Karunapuram today, met the families of the deceased and condoled with them. In a statement released earlier by Thirumavalavan, he mentioned that the implementation of complete prohibition of alcohol in Tamil Nadu is the permanent solution to prevent this atrocity.
It is said that a gang is selling illegal liquor mixed with methanol as an extra intoxicant, and this kind of smuggling is going on in the Kallakurichi area, as a result of which more than 40 people have died. He also explained that many people are being treated in life-threatening conditions.
Thirumavalavan pointed out that last year 22 people died after drinking toxic liquor mixed with methanol in Marakkanam area, “At that time, the government was told that they will monitor the movement of counterfeit methanol business.” However, methanol is sure to circulate freely in the counterfeit market. He stressed that the government should take serious measures to monitor the supply of methanol.
While welcoming the government’s actions, it is justified that the officials involved in the methanol trade should be identified and strict action should be taken against them, and that Tasmac shops are being run by the government to eradicate counterfeit liquor. But, he said, deaths from fake alcohol have confirmed that it is not acceptable.
Also, “Revenue is not acceptable as a reason for running liquor shops. Considering the future of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K.Stalin should take appropriate steps to implement complete prohibition. Govt should come forward to close liquor shops gradually. We also point out that the responsibility of implementing liquor exemption lies not only with the State Government but also with the Union Government.
“It is more essential to create awareness among the people about the need for complete abstinence than giving relief to the families of those who die after drinking fake liquor,” he stressed.