The death toll from the suspected consumption of spurious liquor in Sangrur has tragically risen to eight individuals, with two more deaths reported on Thursday.
The development follows the arrest of Harmanpreet Singh, identified as the main accused in the case. Harmanpreet Singh, hailing from Patran block in Patiala district, was apprehended by Punjab Police as part of their ongoing investigation into the illicit liquor trade.
Police raids conducted at his residence uncovered a significant cache of evidence, including 200 liters of ethanol, labeled and unlabeled bottles of suspected spurious liquor, empty bottles, a bottling machine, and an alcohol meter.
Investigations revealed that Harmanpreet Singh had recently begun producing and distributing illicit liquor, with his activities directly linked to the fatalities in Sangrur. The police have also arrested three other individuals — Sukhwinder Singh, Manpreet Singh, and Gurlal Singh — who were reportedly involved in the distribution network.
Meanwhile, efforts are underway to identify and apprehend other individuals involved in the smuggling network.
The state’s Special Director General of Police (DGP) Arpit Shukla emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the gang's operations could have potentially influenced the outcome of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections by luring voters with illicit alcohol.
As investigations continue, authorities are conducting raids in other states to apprehend additional suspects and disrupt the illicit liquor supply chain.
In response to the tragedy, the District Administration has formed a committee to probe the incident and submit a detailed report within 72 hours. This committee comprises officials from various departments, including the sub-divisional magistrate, police officers, medical personnel, and excise and taxation officers. Their mandate is to investigate the circumstances leading to the consumption of spurious liquor and recommend measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Former MLA Parminder Singh Dhindsa visited the Civil Hospital in Sangrur, demanding stringent action against those responsible and the resignation of Dirba MLA and Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema. Dhindsa also called for a judicial inquiry into the incident to ascertain accountability and ensure justice for the victims and their families.