Archive · 19 Jan 2026
Aligarh hooch tragedy victims await justice
In 2021, over 100 people died in Aligarh, India, after drinking poisonous alcohol.
A court recently found one person guilty, but the families of the victims say the punishment isn't fair.
They received only 5 lakh rupees each, which isn't enough to live on.
They also say that the tragedy happened because of a group of bad people working together, including those who sell alcohol and corrupt officials.
The families and activists want the government to punish everyone involved and give more money to the victims' families.
Over 100 people died in Aligarh in 2021 after consuming methanol-laced alcohol.
A court convicted a liquor smuggler on January 17, 2024, with sentencing scheduled for January 19, 2024.
Victims' families received Rs 5 lakh each in compensation, which they say is inadequate.
Families allege a nexus between the liquor mafia, businessmen, and corrupt officials.
Several accused have been released on bail, and families demand stricter punishment.
- Who
- Victims' families and activists in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh
- What
- Demands for stricter punishment and higher compensation for the 2021 hooch tragedy
- When
- The tragedy occurred in summer 2021, and the court convicted a liquor smuggler on January 17, 2024
- Where
- Aligarh district, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Why
- Families feel justice is incomplete due to inadequate compensation and bailing of accused
- Date of Tragedy
- Summer 2021
- Death Toll
- 106
- Compensation per Family
- Rs 5 lakh
- Convicted Person
- Liquor smuggler
- Sentencing Date
- January 17, 2024
- Key Witness
- Ritessh Kumar (Pradhan of Karsua village)
- Alleged Nexus
- Liquor mafia, businessmen, corrupt officials
- Key Activist
- Tejveer Chauhan (Lawyer and social activist)