In a heartbreaking turn of events, six individuals lost their lives after consuming illicit alcohol in the fishing hamlet of Ekkiyarkuppam. The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, MK Stalin, has pledged financial aid of Rs 10 lakh to each bereaved family affected by this unfortunate incident.
According to the district’s Superintendent of Police, the victims fell to the consumption of country liquor, locally produced and sold within their community.. As of now, twelve other individuals remain hospitalized due to the toxic substance.
In an effort to alleviate the suffering of those affected, Chief Minister MK Stalin has also announced compensation of Rs 50,000 for each of the 12 hospitalized individuals. Additionally, State Minister for Higher Education K Ponmudy, who also represents the Thirukoilur constituency in Villupuram district, paid visits to the families of the deceased and the hospitalized victims on Sunday.
Expressing deep sorrow over the incident, Minister K Ponmudy emphasized the measures undertaken by the Chief Minister to prevent such tragic occurrences. He highlighted that Chief Minister Stalin recently convened a meeting with the police department, urging them to take swift and decisive action against the illegal sale of gutkha, ganja, and illicit liquor. Notably, the Chief Minister had launched the Drug Free Tamil Nadu scheme in 2022 as part of these ongoing efforts.
Ponmudy also highlighted a recent success in the battle against narcotics, stating, “Just three days ago, the police confiscated a substantial quantity of 2800 kg of ganja in the Madurai district.” The government’s determination to combat the illicit drug trade and its harmful consequences remains steadfast.