In the wake of the devastating hooch tragedy that claimed 34 lives in Tamil Nadu’s Kallakurichi district, high-profile visits from political leaders and heightened security measures are underway. On Wednesday, Tamil Nadu Ministers Udhayanidhi Stalin and Leader of Opposition Edappadi Palaniswami skipped the Assembly session to meet the victims' families in Kallakurichi. Several other political leaders are also set to travel to the affected area.
The tragedy occurred after locals consumed spurious liquor allegedly mixed with methanol and the death toll is expected to rise as many individuals remain in critical condition.
Along with Udhayanidhi Stalin, Ministers Ma Subramaniam and EV Velu and DGP Shankar Jiwal are also expected to visit Kallakurichi.
Opposition Leaders To Visit Kallakurichi
Tamil Nadu BJP chief Annamalai announced his visit to Kallakurichi and the state BJP has planned a protest in response to the incident on June 22.
Tamil Nadu Opposition leader EPS reached Kallakurichi on Thursday.
DMDK chief Premalatha Vijayakant has also stated she will visit the district to meet the victims' families and assess the situation firsthand.
Tamil Nadu Hooch Tragedy: Security Intensified
In light of these visits and the ongoing crisis, DIG Salem Range, Uma, has confirmed significant security measures. "We have given security in Kallakurichi district with 7 SPs and 1000 police personnel on duty now. We have a help desk, anyone can access it easily. Bodies have been dispatched safely," she said.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister MK Stalin ordered the transfer of the district collector and the suspension of the Superintendent of Police (SP) and the entire prohibition wing of the district.
The decisive action was aimed to address administrative lapses and prevent such incidents in the future.