At Least 11 Dead, 35 Hospitalised in MP's Sagar After Consuming Illicit Liquor

At least 11 people have died and 35 remain hospitalised in Madhya Pradesh's Sagar district after consuming suspected illicit liquor on Saturday night, forcing the state administration to initiate emergency medical screenings across multiple villages.

The deaths, reported from four villages including Naura and Ghugru, triggered an immediate government response on Sunday. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav ordered a high-level probe, directing senior officials to visit the site while promising strict action against illicit liquor networks.

Medical Teams Deploy Emergency Screenings

Patients admitted to the District Hospital in Sagar and Bundelkhand Medical College presented severe symptoms, including muscle stiffness and cyanosis—a bluish discolouration of the skin caused by severe oxygen deprivation in the bloodstream.

Sagar District Collector Pratibha Pal confirmed that administration officials and medical teams are conducting door-to-door screenings across the affected pockets. Authorities have issued an urgent advisory asking anyone who consumed alcohol in the area over the past 48 hours to seek immediate medical evaluation.

Supply Outlets Sealed as Investigation Opens

Excise and police authorities have sealed six liquor shops in the surrounding area and seized samples for laboratory testing to identify the exact chemical contaminants. Post-mortem examinations and forensic reports will formally determine the cause of death.

The tragedy hits during the state government's ongoing anti-addiction campaign, "Nasha Se Doori Hai Zaroori 2.0," launched in mid-July to curb substance abuse.

Political pressure has mounted rapidly following the incident, with Opposition leaders alleging widespread illicit liquor trading in the region. With several victims remaining in critical condition, hospital officials indicated the casualty count could rise as screening operations continue.