Hyderabad, 11 July (H.S.): The death toll from spurious toddy consumption in Kukatpally, Hyderabad, has risen to seven, with 51 hospitalized. Thirty-four patients are at Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS); two succumbed to their condition on Thursday. Eleven others are at Gandhi Hospital, while some are in private care. Symptoms suggest chemical adulterants in the toddy, with methanol and chloral hydrate suspected. The affected consumed the toddy on July 6 and 7, and symptoms like diarrhoea and fatigue surfaced on July 8, prompting hospital visits. Special medical teams have been deployed, and the state Health Minister visited NIMS to assess the situation.

Opposition leaders accused the government of downplaying the incident, calling for compensation of Rs 25 lakh for the deceased’s families. They also demanded a thorough investigation into the matter. Reports indicate that some victims are suffering from kidney failure due to the harmful substances. The Telangana Human Rights Commission is investigating and has ordered a detailed report by August 20.

The Prohibition and Excise Department has initiated a crackdown on spurious toddy, sealing shops and arresting five individuals. Since 2014, Telangana has recorded 39,176 incidents related to adulterated toddy, with 13,338 people falling ill. In 2025, there were 516 cases recorded in the first half alone. The ongoing trend includes the adulteration of toddy with substances like chloral hydrate, alprazolam, and diazepam to increase potency. Over the past decade, 47 lakh litres of spurious toddy have been seized, revealing a persistent issue of illegal brewing and substance mixing.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar