CM orders probe into hooch deaths in Amalapuram

Amalapuram, Jan 26: Chief Minister K Rosaish on Tuesday ordered a probe into the death of 13 persons in the hooch tragedy at Rachapalem in Ambajipeta mandal and Palagummi of Gagulakurru Agraharam panchayat in Amalapuram mandalam in East Godavari district.According to sources, the death toll in the liquor tragedy rose to 13 as five more persons died in various hospitals in Kakinada while undergoing treatment.

People of Rachapalem and Palagummi villages took ill after consuming illicit liquor at a belt shop in Gangalakurru Agraharam. They were first taken to local RMP and PMP for treatment.After their condition deteriorated they were rushed to KIMS and CARE Hospitals in Kakinada on Sunday. Eight persons died on Monday night.Still four persons were in serious condition in Kakinada and two are undergoing treatment in Amalapuram.

Meanwhile, the families of victims on Tuesday staged a dharna at the Excise office demanding the closure of belt shop in Gangalakurru Agraharam.They criticized the indifferent attitude of excise officials for not closing the belt shops though many people died after consuming illicit liquor.The police have registered the deaths as suspicious and ordered a probe into the incident.