Tamil Nadu Chief minister MK Stalin, on Thursday, June 20, formed a one-man commission under retired Justice B Gokuldas to conduct a detailed probe in the Kallakurichi illicit liquor tragedy and submit a report, along with recommendations to prevent such incidents in the future within three months. The CM also held a review meeting with officials regarding the incident that has taken 37 lives so far. The government has also announced an ex gratia of Rs 10 lakh for the kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for those undergoing treatment in hospitals.
The CM, in a press release, stated that four persons have been arrested so far and investigation is underway to find those involved in supplying methanol for the production of the spurious liquor. Further, officials have also been directed to find the reserve of methanol supply, if any, and destroy it.
On June 19, the District Superintendent of Police was placed under suspension and the District Collector was transferred. The case was also transferred to the CBCID for further investigation. CBCID SP Shantharam commenced the probe and five special teams have been formed to track down all those involved in the crime. At least 37 persons have died and 109 persons hospitalised in Kallakurichi Government Medical College, JIPMER Puducherry, and Salem Government Hospital.