The Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) for rural Amritsar, Maninder Singh, confirmed the deaths, stating that the total number of casualties has reached 12, while five individuals remain hospitalised. Authorities suspect the victims had consumed illicitly manufactured alcohol, which proved to be toxic. Initial reports suggest that the victims started showing severe symptoms shortly after consuming the liquor, which was allegedly sourced from a local supplier. The police were alerted after a series of emergency admissions were reported at nearby hospitals. Medical teams attempted to save the victims, but many succumbed to what appears to be alcohol poisoning.
The Punjab Police have registered a case and launched a full-scale investigation into the matter. Raids are being conducted to identify and arrest those involved in the manufacturing and distribution of the toxic liquor. Samples of the liquor have been collected and sent for forensic analysis to determine the exact chemical composition and identify the substances that led to the deaths. According to locals, the distribution of country-made liquor is common in certain pockets of Majitha, where enforcement of regulations is often weak. The tragic event has sparked public outrage and demands for stricter control over the sale of liquor in rural areas. Several residents allege that authorities had prior knowledge about illegal liquor operations but failed to act in time. This is not the first such tragedy to strike India. In February earlier this year, three labourers died in Gujarat’s Nadiad after consuming country liquor mixed with a suspicious substance. Such recurring incidents highlight a growing issue that continues to claim innocent lives, often among economically vulnerable communities.
The Punjab government is under increasing pressure to crack down on the illegal liquor mafia operating in the state. Health officials are also urging the public to remain cautious and avoid consumption of unregulated alcohol. Community leaders in Majitha have called for immediate action and compensation for the victims’ families. As the investigation progresses, the focus remains on identifying the source of the toxic liquor and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice. Meanwhile, the families of the deceased are left grieving a preventable loss, and five others continue to battle for their lives in hospital.
