Over 15 hospitalised after consuming country liquor in Odisha’s Ganjam

More than 15 persons fell ill after consuming country liquor at Chikiti area in Ganjam district on Tuesday.

They were immediately rushed to Chikiti hospital for treatment.

As per reports, all the victims are from Karbala and Jenasahi villages in Chikti area. They consumed country liquor sold near Moundpur on Monday night and soon started vomiting. 

As their condition deteriorated, they were admitted to Chikiti hospital for treatment. The condition of the two is stated to be critical.

While 11 among them are getting treatment at the medicine ward, two each have been admitted to the casualty ward and ICU as their conditions deteriorated.

Upon being informed, police and Excise Department officials reached the spot and are conducting searches in Moundpur, Jenapur, Karbala villages and nearby areas. 

 It is yet to be ascertained whether the persons fell sick due to spurious liquor or not. No arrest in this connection has been made so far.

“Conditions of the patients undergoing treatment at the medicine ward are stable. Two persons are getting treatment in ICU. We are taking stock of the situation. We have already started a field inquiry and taken actions. More action will be taken in this connection. We are having close coordination to provide medical facilities. Awareness is also being spread at the village. We are ready for any kind of issue. The sample of the country liquor has been sent for testing. We will take strong action against any kind of excise rule violation,” said Ganjam Collector Dibya Jyoti Parida.

“Three to four persons are preparing illegal liquor at Moundpur village. A joint action force consisting of Police, Forest and Excise Departments will be formed and necessary action will be taken,” said Excise Commissioner Narasingha Bhol.

As per the latest report, as many as five persons from Maundapur village were arrested in connection with the case. Meanwhile, 55 ltr of country liquor was seized by Excise Department officials.

“The government has made a plan to curb illicit trading of liquor and work in this regard has already started. We will also bring a new excise policy soon. Conditions of the ill persons in Ganjam have been improving. Stern action will be taken against erring persons involved in connection with the case,” said Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan.

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