Madhya Pradesh: CM removes Collector, SP after hooch tragedy

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has removed Collector Anurag Verma and Superintendent of Police Anurag Sujania of Morena district. Stringent action has been ordered against those found guilty after investigation of hooch tragedy killing 18.

Bhopal: Acting upon the hooch tragedy, Madhya Pradesh government has removed District Collector Anurag Verma and Superintendent of Police Anurag Sujania of Morena district, as per the decision made in a high-level meeting.

Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan expressed his strong displeasure over the incident. He held SP and Collector responsible over the incident and they were removed with immediate effect. Excise officer, Baghini TI and two inspectors have already been suspended over the incident.

CM also said that the government cannot remain a silent spectator on such an incident. He said that the incident was painful and inhuman. Stringent action would be taken against those found guilty in the investigation. He has also ordered to initiate a campaign against spurious liquor in the state. Strict monitoring to prevent sale and consumption of spurious liquor has been ordered.

The death toll from hooch tragedy has risen up to 18 in Badhamurena. It should also be noted that death from consuming spurious liquor was reported five years ago.

Amid questions being raised on the availability of toxic liquor in the area, state Home Minister Narottam Mishra earlier said, "I am deeply saddened by this incident. The Station House Officer has been suspended immediately. Accused will not be spared."

The police investigation is ongoing. The villagers are being asked whether anyone fell sick due to consumption of alcohol.

A large amount of methanol was mixed with ethanol to make alcohol which was confirmed by FSL officer Preeti Gaikwad. Methanol is a chemical that could be lethal for the human body and if consumed more than 10 ml, it can cause blindness.