UP hooch tragedy: Toll mounts to 32, many in serious condition

Etah (UP), July 18: The toll in the spurious liquor tragedy on Monday climbed to 32 while over two dozen people were battling for life after consuming the hooch in Etah and neighbouring districts.

While 28 persons have died so far in Etah, four died in Farukhabad, taking the toll to 32, officials said here.

"28 persons have died in the district in the liquor tragedy," Etah District Magistrate Ajay Yadav said. He said 21 deaths had occurred till Sunday and seven more died overnight. Ajit Kumar, SDM of Kayamganj in Farukhabad confirmed four deaths due to the spurious liquor.

Three persons had died till Sunday and another died later, he said.

Meanwhile, the condition of over two dozen people admitted in various hospitals in Etah and Saifai, after they consumed the spurious liquor, was stated to be critical.

The main accused Sripal has been arrested and 11 officials from excise department and police have also been suspended. The DM has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh to the families of each deceased.

PTI