The toll from spurious liquor in Tamil Nadu’s Kallakurichi district has climbed to 61, with 118 others hospitalized since the tragedy unfolded in Karunapuram village on June 18.
The National Human Rights Commission has taken suo moto notice, issuing notices to the state Chief Secretary and Director-General of Police for a detailed report within a week. The National Commission for Women has also reacted, forming a committee to investigate the deaths of six women, with member Khushbu Sundar visiting affected families.
The incident has sparked political friction between the ruling DMK and the opposition AIADMK. AIADMK legislators were suspended from the assembly session, prompting accusations of censorship and premeditated action.
Tensions escalated further as AIADMK MPs protested in black shirts, demanding justice over the tragedy.