Toxic liquor tragedy claims 14 lives in Amritsar, 5 arrested as crackdown begins

A suspected batch of toxic liquor has claimed at least 14 lives and left six others battling for survival across five villages in Punjab’s Amritsar district, triggering public outrage and a swift crackdown by law enforcement.

The fatalities were reported from the villages of Bhangali, Patalpuri, Marari Kalan, Therewal, and Talwandi Ghuman. Local authorities confirmed that all victims had allegedly consumed illicit hooch before succumbing to its toxic effects.

Amritsar Deputy Commissioner Sakshi Sawhney confirmed the toll on May 13 and said that Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Maninder Singh had rushed to the affected areas to personally assess the situation. “Our focus is on medical support for the survivors and ensuring swift legal action against the perpetrators,” Sawhney stated.

Police have arrested five individuals in connection with the case. The accused have been identified as Prabhjit Singh — believed to be the kingpin behind the distribution — along with Kulbir Singh, Sahib Singh, Gurjant Singh, and Ninder Kaur.

A case has been registered under the stringent provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Excise Act. Authorities say more arrests could follow as the investigation expands.

This incident has cast a grim shadow over the region, reviving painful memories of previous hooch tragedies in the state. Community members are now demanding stricter enforcement against the illegal liquor trade and justice for the victims.

“Fourteen lives are lost, and families are shattered. This can’t be just another statistic,” said a local villager, mourning a neighbor’s death.

The administration has assured the public that a high-level inquiry will be conducted, and those found responsible — including any officials who may have turned a blind eye — will face severe consequences.