Probe Launched as Deadly Spurious Liquor Claims Lives in Sagar District

In the early hours of September 6, eight people died after drinking counterfeit liquor in the villages of Gogra Khurd, Nauroaj and Patan, located in Banada tehsil of Sagar district. Victims reported nausea, vomiting and severe head pain before their conditions deteriorated rapidly.

The Madhya Pradesh chief minister, Mohan Yadav, instructed an immediate probe and ordered the suspension of key officials. Excise Commissioner Deepak Saxena placed Assistant Excise Commissioner Kirti Dubey, Assistant District Excise Officer Dilip Khandate and Sub‑Inspector Roshanie Ureti on suspension. Deputy Commissioner Neerja Srivastava, who heads the division’s flying squad, was removed from the district and attached to the Gwalior headquarters.

Police leadership also faced disciplinary action; Banada police station in‑charge Rajendra Singh Kushwaha and Guga post Sub‑Inspector Purnalal Ladia were suspended on the spot. The chief minister announced that no leniency would be shown to anyone found culpable and urged senior officers to provide urgent relief, medical treatment and a comprehensive enquiry for the bereaved families.

Forensic analysis of seized liquor samples indicates the probable presence of methanol, and investigators are examining a suspected supply route that may originate from the Uttar Pradesh border. The administration has sealed local liquor shops as a precaution while door‑to‑door health screenings are conducted in the affected villages.