Odisha Govt Warns ‘Bulldozer’ Action Against Illegal Liquor Traders

Bhubaneswar: Jolted by death of five persons in Chikiti hooch tragedy in Ganjam district, Odisha government has warned of stringent action against illicit liquor traders including bulldozing their illegal units.

Speaking to media persons on Tuesday, Excise Commissioner Narasingha Bhol said the department has intensified crackdown on illegal liquor trade as part of the state government’s special drive in the wake of Chikiti hooch tragedy.

Detailing the government’s action plan against illicit liquor trade, Bhol said the department would confiscate the property of such traders and if necessary, their liquor manufacturing units will be bulldozed.

In order to strengthen the enforcement officials, the Excise Police will be permitted to use arms during raids on the manufacturing units. A special training for the personnel has already been started in Nayagarh in this regard, he added.

It may be noted that the toll in Chikiti hooch tragedy went up to 5 on Monday with the death of one more person at MKCG Medical College and Hospital (MCH) in Berhampur on Monday.

The deceased was identified as Pradeep Behera from Jenapur village. He was among 15 persons who were admitted in MKCG Hospital after reportedly consuming spurious country liquor in Chikiti area of Ganjam district on August 19.