Hyderabad: Six people have died, and 17 others were hospitalized after consuming adulterated toddy in the Kukatpally area on Monday. The patients, admitted to NIMS and other hospitals, are currently stable.
Following these incidents, the state government instructed excise officials to send toddy samples for chemical analysis. Additionally, regular checks at toddy shops in the city will be conducted.
The deceased were residents of HMT Hills’ Saicharank Colony in Kukatpally. They have been identified as Tulsiram (47), Bojjayya (55), Narayamma (65), Mounika (25), and Swaroopa (56). Tulsiram and Bojjayya died at Gandhi Hospital during treatment, while Narayanamma passed away at home before being hospitalized.
Reports indicate that three shops selling the contaminated toddy sourced their supplies from the same depot. The victims fell ill on Tuesday after drinking the toddy on Monday, experiencing symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting.
Swaroopa’s funeral was halted by police, and her body was taken to Gandhi Hospital for a post-mortem. Her son provided a statement to the police.
The incident has caused panic among residents in affected areas. Locals demand strict action against those responsible for the adulterated toddy. It’s alleged that a shop owner attempted to conceal the deaths caused by the hooch, but with local assistance, police uncovered the truth.
Minister Jupally Krishna Rao stated that 15 victims were admitted to NIMS, two to Gandhi Hospital, and others to private hospitals. Those running the depots have been detained, and the remaining toddy seized and destroyed. Samples have been sent for analysis.
Local police have intensified raids to prevent the sale of illegal liquor. Krishna Rao confirmed that all affected individuals showed similar symptoms, initially suspected to be poisoning.
The police and excise department have registered a case and are investigating. The Minister assured that those responsible will face consequences. Special teams have been deployed to monitor toddy depots, ensuring such incidents do not occur again.
