The hooch tragedy at Rojid village in Botad district in Gujarat has so far claimed more than 30 lives. More than 45 people have been hospitalized and many are in critical condition. The police have arrested several people in connection with the case for allegedly mixing chemicals with country-made liquor and also for selling the said concoction. Today, Minister-in-charge at Botad, Vinod Moradiya, said that strict action must be taken against everyone who is responsible for this incident.
Moradiya told the reporters, “This incident is sad and shameful. We will investigate how and who is selling liquor in the state despite prohibition. Liquor prohibition was implemented in Gujarat in 1960 itself. In 2017, the Gujarat government decided to impose even more strict rules to maintain prohibit liquor. The new rules mandate that those who sell liquor can be sentenced to jail for 10 years. These accused might also have to pay a fine of up to Rs5 lakh.”
Talking about the sale of liquor in a state where alcohol is prohibited, Moradiya said that officials should not neglect any complaint regarding the sale of liquor. However, he said that he as Minister-in-charge had not received any complaints about liquor sales in the district.
Furthermore, Moradiya said that the incident cannot be ignored and the government is taking appropriate steps in the matter. A special investigation team has been set up to probe the matter. A DSP-ranked officer will lead the investigation.
