Odisha Government Orders Probe into Fatal Liquor Incident

Odisha's Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan announced a high-level administrative probe into the tragic liquor incident in Ganjam district that resulted in two deaths and multiple hospitalizations. The government has suspended key excise officials and launched a statewide drive to counter illicit liquor manufacturing and sale.

In a significant development, the Odisha government has announced an administrative probe into the recent liquor tragedy in Ganjam district, where two people died and 13 others required hospital treatment after consuming spurious alcohol. The probe, to be led by the Revenue Divisional Commissioner (RDC), was confirmed by Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan in the Assembly on Thursday.

The state has enacted a zero-tolerance policy against the illegal liquor trade. As part of the crackdown, Berhampur Excise Inspector Ramesh Chandra Mohanty and Sub-Inspector Prasanna Kumar Dhali have been suspended, while Excise Superintendent Pradeep Panigrahi has been transferred. The minister also ordered a detailed report from the department and increased enforcement across the state.

In response to the tragedy, the state excise department, supported by forest and police officials, has arrested eight individuals, including a woman and the manufacturer Surendra Mallick. Local allegations suggest the liquor was illicitly brewed using harmful substances. A seven-day drive has been launched to eradicate these illegal operations, resulting in 203 registered cases and 117 arrests statewide.

(With inputs from agencies.)