A suspected hooch tragedy in East Champaran’s Motihari has left at least four people dead, while several others are battling serious health complications, including loss of eyesight, triggering panic in the region.
According to officials, the victims allegedly consumed illicit liquor, after which their condition deteriorated rapidly. Several affected individuals reported symptoms such as vomiting, blurred vision and unconsciousness, indicating possible methanol poisoning — a common cause in such cases.
Authorities have launched a major crackdown, arresting at least 12 individuals, including the alleged kingpin of the illegal liquor network. Investigators are probing supply chains and local distribution points to identify how the liquor was manufactured and circulated despite the state’s prohibition laws.
The incident has once again reignited debate over the effectiveness of Bihar’s liquor ban policy. Opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav has criticised the government, calling the tragedy a failure of enforcement.
Officials said medical teams are monitoring affected patients, while police presence has been increased in the area to prevent further incidents.
This is not the first such case in Bihar, where illegal liquor networks continue to operate despite prohibition, raising serious concerns about enforcement gaps and public safety.
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