This Issue Can't Be Taken Lightly: Madras HC Raps Tamil Nadu Govt Over Kallakurichi Hooch Tragedy

The Madras High Court on Friday slammed the Tamil Nadu government over the Kallakurichi hooch tragedy and demanded a detailed account of the actions taken by the government in response to a similar incident that occurred within the past year.

"This issue cannot be taken lightly by the government. This is about the life of persons. We want to know what action the government has taken since the last one year, when such a similar incident happened previously," Justice Krishnakumar said, as per Live Law.

Justice Kumaresh Babu said that before this incident happened, there were also news reports about how illicit arrack was easily made available. "I also happened to see a YouTube interview where specific allegations were made and persons making these illicit liquor were named," he added.

Justice Kumaresh Babu further stated, "You can't sweep these under the carpet. These are the allegations going around in the media, in newspapers and YouTube channels."

The court was considering the plea submitted by the AIADMK, urging for a CBI investigation into the allegations.

Advocate Selvam, representing the petitioners, contended that the state's efforts to curb the sale and consumption of illicit liquor had been ineffective. He further argued that the discovery of methanol in Pondicherry indicated an interstate concern, warranting a CBI inquiry.

Tamil Nadu's Advocate-General, PS Raman, apprised the court of the arrests of 21 individuals and the detention of eight under the Goondas Act. Additionally, action had been taken against 16 personnel following a prior incident.

Raman elaborated that four arrests had been made in the Kallakurichi case, with the investigation now under CB-CID jurisdiction. Furthermore, a one-man commission, headed by a retired Madras High Court judge and appointed by the Chief Minister, had been tasked with inquiry.

Seeking further information, the Madras High Court requested details regarding measures taken by the state to prevent such occurrences, as well as specifics regarding suspended and transferred officers. Also, the court sought information on de-addiction centres.

Responding to the situation, Justice Krishnakumar remarked that the issue extended beyond economic boundaries, affecting both affluent and impoverished families alike. He highlighted that illicit liquor was just one facet of a broader societal challenge, noting instances of individuals resorting to suicide.