The death toll due to toxic liquor consumed by villagers of Malihabad and Unnao has reached 39 while over 100 affected people are being treated in various government hospitals here.
Meanwhile, the State excise and police department have continued its crackdown against illegal liquor sale even as Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav announced mass transfers in the excise department.
As many as seven deaths were reported in the last 24 hours while several of the affected are still in very critical condition. Health officials fear that the death toll could go up. So far, 27 residents of Malihabad villages and 12 of Unnao have died due. The police have already arrested main accused Jugnu Shahi of Malihabad along with his accomplices, while raids are on to nab the remaining accused, including Shahi’s wife. It is alleged that Jugnu had supplied toxic liquor.
Meanwhile, the excise and police department officials are carrying out State-wide raids against illegal liquor manufacturers and its suppliers besides those selling liquor illegally.
