High Court orders CBI probe into Tamil Nadu liquor tragedy that killed 68 people

Chennai:

In a blow to the ruling DMK in Tamil Nadu, the Madras High Court has ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation probe into the illicit liquor tragedy that left 68 people dead in Villupuram district.

The state government had already transferred the case to the Crime Branch branch of the CID and opposed its transfer to the CBI. He argued that he has arrested 24 people, transferred the collector, suspended the SP and transferred key police officers. Also, the source of the methanol has been traced and the charge sheet will be filed after the serology and toxicology reports are available, it was argued.

However, the petitioners alleged shoddy investigation and argued that the government had not learned any lessons from earlier similar tragedies. He also pointed out that it is easier for the CBI to deal with the inter-state implications with the methanol allegedly coming from neighboring states.

Locals where the tragedy occurred have alleged a nexus between bootleggers, bootleggers, local police and enforcement agencies.

NewBharat TV had captured signs of polythene packets in which illicit liquor was supplied, with the backyards of sellers' houses being used as bars.

AIADMK, PMK and BJP had gone to court.

Inabadurai, legal wing secretary of the opposition AIADMK, said, “This order is indicative of poor governance in Tamil Nadu.”

PMK leader and lawyer Baalu ​​said today, “The ruling DMK should have voluntarily come forward for a CBI investigation. The families who have lost their loved ones need justice. We hope the DMK does not appeal against this in the Supreme Court.” Will do.”

DMK spokesperson Constantine said, “We have nothing to comment on the order but our concern is that the CBI investigation may delay justice.”