Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
‘This Is Murder, Not Accident’: CM Mann vows strict action in Majithia illicit liquor tragedy
Babuhshahi Bureau
Amritsar (Punjab), May 13, 2025: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has issued a strong statement following the tragic deaths of 14 people after consuming spurious liquor in five villages under the Majitha block of Amritsar.
Terming the incident as a heinous crime, Mann assured that the culprits responsible for the tragedy will face the "strictest punishment under the law."
“Sad news has been received that many people have died due to drinking poisonous liquor in some villages around Majitha. These murderers of innocent people will not be spared at any cost,” said the Chief Minister.
He offered condolences to the bereaved families and emphasized that the government stands firmly with them, promising full support and assistance.
Rejecting any notion of the deaths being accidental, Mann said, “These deaths are not accidents, they are murders. The culprits who spread chaos in people’s homes with poisonous liquor will be punished severely.”
Police Action and Ongoing Investigation
According to Punjab Police, 14 people have died and six others remain hospitalized in critical condition. The tragedy occurred on the night of May 12 in villages surrounding Majitha, including Bhangali Kalan, Mardi Kalan, and others.
In a significant development, police confirmed the arrest of the main distributor—the alleged kingpin behind the illicit liquor network. Additionally, four more individuals involved in the distribution have been arrested.
Deputy Commissioner of Amritsar, Sakshi Sawhney, stated, “An unfortunate tragedy has happened in Majitha. Our medical teams are on the ground, going door-to-door. We are taking everyone to the hospital, whether they show symptoms or not, to prevent further loss of life.”
Sawhney also emphasized that all necessary support is being extended to the victims’ families, and the administration is working around the clock to ensure that the death toll does not rise.
Legal Action Underway
An FIR has been registered under Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 61A of the Excise Act. The police investigation continues, with more arrests expected as the probe deepens.
The incident has sparked outrage across the state, reigniting concerns over the unchecked spread of illicit liquor in Punjab. While the Chief Minister has vowed justice, the public now looks to the government to back its words with swift and decisive action.