India Prime Tv State Desk: Sagar, Madhya Pradesh: A major spurious liquor tragedy has shaken Madhya Pradesh’s Sagar district, with reports suggesting that 28 to 29 people have died after consuming illegally manufactured liquor. However, official figures at the administrative level have so far confirmed 15 to 24 deaths, while the opposition Congress has claimed that the actual death toll has crossed 50.
Around 46 patients are still undergoing treatment at Bundelkhand Medical College (BMC) and other hospitals in Sagar. More than 60 people have reportedly been discharged after recovering.
How the Spurious Liquor Tragedy Happened
The incident began during the intervening night of September 5 and 6, 2026. After consuming liquor on Saturday night, several people began falling ill from Sunday morning. Victims reportedly complained of vomiting, anxiety and blurred vision, followed by a series of deaths.
The tragedy has been reported from several villages in the Banda and Shahgarh tehsil areas of Sagar district, including Baraj and Tatarwara. Most of the affected people are being treated at Bundelkhand Medical College and Sagar District Hospital.
According to the allegations, labourers and villagers purchased illegal liquor that was around ₹50 cheaper than liquor available through licensed outlets. The liquor was allegedly spurious and contained methyl alcohol or excessive quantities of industrial spirit, which reportedly caused severe poisoning, organ failure and deaths.
Illegal Liquor Unit Allegedly Operating in a Cornfield
During the investigation, authorities reportedly found an illegal liquor manufacturing unit in a cornfield in Tatarwara village. According to the investigation, large quantities of spirit were brought to the site and used to manufacture spurious liquor.
Police Investigation and Main Accused
Police investigation has reportedly identified 30 accused, of whom 16 have been arrested so far.
According to police questioning, local Karni Sena office-bearer Chandrabhan Singh, also known as Sarpanch Chandu Rajput, along with Manish Lodhi and Shivanjay, allegedly played key roles in the conspiracy. Manish Lodhi is also alleged to have arranged the spirit in coordination with liquor smuggler Ravi Lakhera.
Bulldozer Action Against Illegal Constructions
Following the tragedy, the administration has begun bulldozer action against allegedly illegal constructions and properties linked to key accused Manish Lodhi and Chandu Rajput.
Government Action
Following directions from Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, three Excise Department officials and two police personnel have been suspended over alleged negligence.
The Chief Minister also visited the hospital and met patients undergoing treatment. He has said that those responsible will face strict punishment, including life imprisonment or the death penalty, depending on the legal findings of the case.
