Pune, 29 May

(HS): As many as 15 people died in Pimpri-Chinchwad area of Pune, suspected ti

be after consuming spurious liquor. The death toll on Thursday and Friday has

gone up to 15. Many others are being treated in hospitals in Dapodi, Fugewadi,

Hadapsar and Kalipadal areas. The deceased allegedly consumed country-made

liquor procured from illegal liqur dens.

CHIEF MINISTER:

MaharashtraChief Minister Devendra Fadnavis contacted police commissioners of

Pimpri-Chinchwad and Pune and directed them to investigate. None of the accused

should be allowed to go without punishment. Police are investigating into the

exact cause of the deaths.

So far police

have arrested eight accused in this connection, including Colonel Virkha Singh.

The Excise Department officials have also been involved in the investigation.

Local people

have alleged negligence on the part of the police in illegal liquor trade in

the region. Former Mayor and NCP leader Yogesh Bahl has demanded detailed

investigation into the illegal liquor trade racket and stern action against

those involved in it.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Ajay Vasant Mardikar