Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday asserted that strict action will be taken against all individuals—regardless of their social or political status—who are involved in the sale of illicit liquor that caused the tragic hooch incident in Amritsar district.
Speaking to the media after meeting the bereaved families, the Chief Minister said that these deaths were not accidents but cold-blooded murders driven by the greed of those involved in this illegal activity. He emphasized that the state government views this as a grave crime and will ensure that the culprits face the harshest possible punishment. CM Bhagwant Mann stated that 17 innocent lives were lost due to the consumption of spurious liquor, and those responsible deserve no leniency for their deliberate actions.
He made it clear that such a crime could not have occurred without political backing and revealed that the police are actively investigating this aspect. So far, 10 people, including the main accused, have been arrested. The police have also uncovered both the suppliers and buyers linked to this criminal network. CM Bhagwant Mann reiterated his government’s firm resolve to deliver justice to the victims’ families through exemplary punishment for the guilty.
The Chief Minister also revealed that the nexus extends as far as Delhi and affirmed that everyone involved will be arrested. Investigations show that the accused had ordered 600 litres of methanol online, which was likely used to manufacture the fake liquor. The police are probing every angle to ensure that all culprits are brought to book.
He further informed that four officials—one DSP, one Station House Officer, and two Excise Department personnel—have been suspended for negligence in preventing the sale of the illicit liquor. While acknowledging that this liquor mafia had grown powerful under the protection of previous governments, CM Bhagwant Mann vowed that it would be completely dismantled. He stressed that anyone found guilty, whether a politician or a government employee, will not be spared.
CM Bhagwant Mann mentioned that he has instructed the Punjab Police to intensify their crackdown on drug and liquor mafias under the ongoing campaign “Yudh Nasheyan De Virudh.” He blamed these criminal elements for exploiting the police’s focus on border security to commit such a heinous act. However, he assured that justice will prevail and those involved will face the consequences.
Expressing grief over the tragedy, CM Bhagwant Mann noted that it has taken away sole breadwinners from many families, drawing parallels with a similar incident that occurred in Tarn Taran in 2020. He affirmed that the government stands firmly with the grieving families and will do everything necessary to ensure justice.
As part of the government’s support, Mann announced financial assistance of ₹10 lakh for each victim’s family. Additionally, the state will cover the educational expenses of the deceased’s children and provide job opportunities and other support to help these families during this difficult time. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring their safety and welfare.