Archive · 8 Sep 2026
Madhya Pradesh Hooch Tragedy Death Toll Rises to 15
Fifteen people in Sagar district, Madhya Pradesh, have died after drinking poisonous illegal liquor.
Two victims died while receiving treatment on Tuesday.
Nearly 40 other people are still in hospitals, and three are in critical condition.
Police say one person who died was accused of helping sell the illegal liquor.
Fourteen of the 30 accused people have been arrested.
Three excise officers and two police officers have been suspended.
Villagers say many victims came from Gugra Khurd village.
The government is investigating, while the opposition is demanding a deeper inquiry and stronger action.
Fifteen people have died after consuming spurious liquor in Sagar district, police said.
Nearly 40 victims remain hospitalized, including three in critical condition.
Police have arrested 14 of 30 accused and are searching for the rest.
Three excise officers and two policemen have been suspended over the incident.
Opposition leader Umang Singhar has demanded a high-level probe and action against officials and liquor traders.
- Who
- Fifteen victims died, while nearly 40 others remain hospitalized; police have arrested 14 of 30 accused people.
- What
- A spurious-liquor poisoning incident caused deaths and illnesses in Sagar district.
- When
- The death toll rose on Tuesday after two victims died during treatment.
- Where
- Sagar district, Madhya Pradesh, including Gugra Khurd village.
- Why
- The victims allegedly consumed poisonous illicit liquor.
Authorities' Response
Opposition and Villagers' Demands
Investigation and accountability
Authorities' Response
Police have registered three FIRs, arrested 14 suspects, suspended three excise officers and two policemen, and launched a campaign against illegal liquor traders.
Opposition and Villagers' Demands
Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar has demanded a high-level investigation, strict action against the culprits, and a probe into alleged involvement by senior police and excise officials.
Preventing further harm
Authorities' Response
The administration has urged anyone experiencing symptoms after consuming alcohol to seek immediate medical attention.
Opposition and Villagers' Demands
Villagers, including a bereaved family member, have called for government assistance and a ban on liquor sales to prevent another tragedy.
- Death toll
- 15 people
- Hospitalized
- Nearly 40 people; three are reported to be in critical condition
- Arrests
- 14 of 30 accused people arrested
- Suspensions
- Three excise officers and two policemen suspended
- Affected village
- Five deaths have been reported in Gugra Khurd village
- Police action
- Three FIRs registered and a campaign launched against illegal liquor traders
- Medical warning
- Authorities advised people with vomiting, headache or fever after drinking alcohol to seek immediate medical care