13 dead, several critical after toxic liquor in Pune

At least thirteen people have died and several others are in critical condition in Pune district, Maharashtra, after allegedly consuming toxic liquor. The fatalities, reported over a 24-hour period on Thursday, occurred in the Phugewadi area of Pimpri Chinchwad and in Pune city's Hadapsar and Kale Padal localities.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that eight people have been arrested in connection with the case and ordered a thorough investigation. Officials said a major crackdown operation is underway across Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad to apprehend those involved in the illicit liquor trade.

Police have identified Yogesh Wankhede as a key suspect, alleging he supplied liquor to both affected areas. The State Excise Department detained Wankhede and handed him over to police. Authorities said they seized liquor he supplied to other locations to prevent further harm. A case has been registered against him at the Dapodi Police Station under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Maharashtra Prohibition Act.

Investigators suspect the liquor was adulterated with methanol, a toxic industrial chemical that can cause blindness, organ failure, and death....