The Pune City Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) concerning the suspected deaths from illicit liquor consumption. This action was taken on May 29, 2023, at the Hadapsar Police Station. The FIR identifies two individuals as accused: Akash Jadhav and one unidentified person. Officials confirmed that these names have been recorded in connection with the case.

In addition to the FIR in Pune, law enforcement agencies in Pimpri-Chinchwad have also initiated proceedings at the Dapodi Police Station. Authorities are continuing their investigation into this matter, which has drawn significant attention due to the rising number of fatalities.

As of now, the death toll attributed to the suspected consumption of toxic alcohol stands at 18. Within this figure, some fatalities have been reported in the Pimpri-Chinchwad area, while some deaths occurred in the jurisdiction of Pune City Police.

Reactions from Political Leaders

In light of the incident, Shiv Sena leader Pramod Nana Bhangire and several party members conducted a protest outside the Hadapsar Police Station. Bhangire accused local police of willfully neglecting the operations of illegal liquor establishments and urged for their immediate closure. He highlighted that if action is not taken, the women’s wing of his party would intervene to dismantle such illegal establishments.

During the protest, Bhangire expressed concern about the police’s inaction regarding illicit liquor shops despite being fully aware of their existence. He called for immediate government intervention, insisting that this issue be escalated to Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. His statements included a commitment to support the families of the deceased.

Sanjay Raut, an MP from Shiv Sena (UBT), also voiced criticism towards the state government, labelling the situation as an instance of culpable homicide. Raut pointed out that 18 families have suffered a great loss and condemned the government’s perceived lack of seriousness regarding the tragedy. He argued that the government should focus on addressing this critical issue rather than being preoccupied with other controversies.

Police Response and Investigation Progress

Pune’s Commissioner of Police, Amitesh Kumar, provided an update on the ongoing investigation. He indicated that, initially, the deceased individuals presented with a history of alcoholic intoxication upon being admitted to medical facilities. Autopsies have been conducted, and their visceral samples have been sent for forensic analysis. Kumar anticipates receiving the results by the end of the day.

The police department plans to intensify their efforts against the illicit liquor trade, underscoring a zero-tolerance approach. Kumar noted that over 1,000 raids have been conducted against illegal liquor activities within Pune’s jurisdiction as of May 27, 2023. He assured the public that those involved in this alleged racket would face severe consequences.

He emphasised that the investigation remains a priority and highlighted the measures that are being taken to ensure accountability for those involved in creating such hazardous circumstances. The authorities aim to enhance their vigilance in preventing similar incidents in the future.

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