Chandigarh, May 13 (HS): The toxic liquor tragedy in Majitha, Amritsar, has claimed 17 lives, with four individuals in critical condition. In response, the state government has suspended the DSP and the in-charge of the Majitha police station. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced a compensation of 10 lakh rupees for each deceased's family member.

The affected individuals hail from Bhangali, Patalpuri, Marari Kalan and Therewal villages with the death toll rising from 14 to 17 within a day. Ten suspects have been arrested, and police are actively tracking the liquor supply chain. The highest number of fatalities, five, took place in Maraadi Kalaan, including victims Major Singh, Paramjit Singh, Satbir Singh, Sukhvinder Singh, and Sarbjit Singh, among others from various villages. Currently, eight people, including Kaala Singh and Tarsem Singh, remain hospitalized. CM Mann described the deaths as murder rather than accidents, emphasizing the need for accountability. Alongside financial aid, plans for children's education and job opportunities for capable family members will be implemented to support the bereaved families. The investigation continues as authorities work to uncover the full extent of the incident.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar