Bhavnagar Liquor Tragedy: Minister Orders Strict Action

BHAVNAGAR: With the spurious liquor tragedy triggering widespread concern with 11 deaths,  Gujarat government spokesperson minister Jitu Vaghani on Friday reviewed the situation with senior district officials and ordered a strict crackdown on those behind the illegal liquor network.

Vaghani chaired a meeting at the Superintendent of Police’s office and took stock of the health of affected victims, treatment arrangements, deaths, discharges and the progress of the police investigation.

He directed health officials to ensure immediate and proper treatment for every affected person and maintain continuous monitoring of patients.

“No one involved in the illegal liquor business should be spared. The investigation must reach the root of the entire matter and strict legal action must be taken against all those involved,” Vaghani told police officials.

Bhavnagar Range IG R.B. Asari briefed the minister on the investigation, while District Superintendent of Police Dr Nitesh Pandey said 16 teams were working on the case.

According to the SP, legal action has so far been initiated against 13 accused. The incident has claimed eight lives, while 19 affected people remain under treatment and 16 have been discharged.

The police have also suspended seven officers and employees, including two police inspectors, for alleged negligence in the discharge of their duties.

Senior administrative and police officials attended the meeting as authorities intensified efforts to investigate the tragedy and dismantle the illicit liquor network.