BJP Accuses DMK Government Of Complicity In Tamil Nadu Hooch Tragedy

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched a scathing attack on the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government following the hooch tragedy in Tamil Nadu’s Kallakuruchi district, which claimed over 56 lives, predominantly from the Dalit community.

During a press conference, BJP National Spokesperson Sambit Patra criticized the Congress and other INDIA bloc leaders for their silence on the incident and accused the state government of complicity.

Patra described the tragedy as a “state-sponsored murder” and demanded accountability from Chief Minister M.K. Stalin.

Patra questioned why Chief Minister Stalin had not yet issued a statement regarding the deaths and accused the district administration of attempting to downplay the severity of the situation.

He demanded when he would address the deaths of many people. Patra questioned why the Collector denied deaths from spurious liquor and attempted to shift blame. He also asked if there were directives from higher leadership.

BJP Spokesperson Criticizes Congress Leaders For Inaction In Hooch Tragedy

The BJP spokesperson also took aim at Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, and other members of the INDIA bloc for their inaction.

“This is a murder and not an accident. So many Dalits have lost their lives and still, all are silent. This is just because the matter does not align with their political interests,” he asserted.

Patra emphasized the need for justice for the Dalit victims and criticized those who often champion Dalit rights for their current silence.

“I don’t want to distinguish deaths based on castes, but the people who take out candle marches, those who fight for the rights of the Dalits, where are these people today?” he questioned.

The tragedy occurred in Karunapuram village, a predominantly Dalit area in Kallakurichi, where the consumption of illicit liquor led to over 56 deaths.

Many others remain critically ill, with around 200 individuals still hospitalized.

Highlighting the long-standing issue of the illicit liquor trade in Karunapuram, Patra alleged a deep-rooted complicity between local administration officials and those running the illegal business.

He stated that this business has been operating in the town for many decades and was well-known to everyone in the police and administration.

Patra called on Chief Minister Stalin to clarify his stance and take responsibility for the tragedy.

“My question to Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is, are you complicit or not? Who will answer on your behalf?” he demanded.

The BJP’s strong condemnation and calls for accountability underscore the political tension surrounding the incident and highlight the broader issues of governance and justice in Tamil Nadu.

As the state grapples with the aftermath of the tragedy, the focus remains on the actions and responses of its leadership.