At least 38 people have died and about 10 others fell ill after consuming adulterated alcohol in a region where alcohol production, sale, and consumption are tightly restricted. This incident highlights the dangers of illicit liquor markets that thrive where formal controls and enforcement are weak or inconsistent.
Officials from Saran County reported that hospitals began receiving patients on Tuesday who complained of stomach pains, vomiting, and blurred vision, among other alarming symptoms. Medical staff are continuing to treat the affected individuals while authorities investigate the source of the tainted beverage and the chain of supply that brought it to local communities.
The county police chief, Santosh Gambling, said that a number of people were arrested in connection with the illicit alcohol operation and are currently being questioned. Investigators are tracing recipes, distillation methods, and distribution routes to determine responsibility and prevent further harm.
In the region, a large portion of the population relies on low-cost options for intoxicants. Blended or adulterated alcohol often remains cheaper than regulated, commercially produced drinks, making it a hazardous alternative for many residents. Poisoning from contaminated liquor has been a recurring concern in India, where diverse illicit supply networks complicate enforcement and public health responses.
Alcohol prohibition in Bihar and several other states shapes the landscape of illegal drinking cultures. While official bans aim to curb alcohol-related problems, they can inadvertently foster black-market activity and unsafe production practices. Authorities stress the importance of robust regulation, quality control, and accessible rehabilitation and support services for communities affected by such tragedies.