Bhavnagar Liquor Scandal: Surat Man Declared Brain Dead

SURAT: The deadly fallout of the Bhavnagar spurious liquor scandal has spread to Surat, where a young man allegedly affected by poisonous liquor has been declared brain dead after battling for life in an ICU for three days.

Sanjaysinh Dodia, originally from Bhavnagar, had consumed liquor there on the night of August 16 before travelling to Surat the following morning. His condition deteriorated soon after he reached the city and he was initially admitted to a private hospital in Varachha.

Doctors said he suffered a cardiac arrest and was revived through CPR. However, he remained unconscious and was later shifted to INS Hospital in Khatodara for specialised neurological treatment.

Medical investigations reportedly detected ethanol and methanol poisoning, with doctors finding that inadequate oxygen supply had severely affected his brain. His neurological condition deteriorated rapidly within hours of consuming the liquor.

Despite intensive treatment, doctors subsequently declared Dodia brain dead. He remains on ventilator support, with medicines being administered to maintain the functioning of his other vital organs. His family has been informed about his condition.

The Bhavnagar tragedy, which came to light on August 18, has so far claimed nine lives, while several victims remain under treatment.

Meanwhile, police action has intensified. Of the 21 accused arrested in connection with the case, 13 were produced before court, which granted 10 days’ remand against them. The Bhavnagar Criminal Bar Association has also passed a resolution deciding not to represent the accused.

In another major development, Vartej Police Station PI A.B. Padheriya and DGP LCB PI Mayurdhwajsinh Sarvaiya were suspended. Four other Vartej police personnel were also suspended by the district SP.

The developments have intensified scrutiny of the alleged illicit liquor network and the police response to the tragedy.