At least 24 people killed in eastern India due to bootleg alcohol

At least 24 residents of India's eastern state of Bihar died from poisoning as a result of consuming counterfeit alcohol, according to the ANI agency, Report informs.

According to the police, the incidents occurred simultaneously on October 17 in the Siwan and Chapra districts, where the number of victims of poisoning from counterfeit alcoholic beverages may increase. During the ongoing investigation, the police detained three dealers of counterfeit alcohol.

Bihar became one of the first states in India where the sale of any alcoholic beverages is officially banned by the local government. Despite the dry law introduced in the state, the trade in alcohol, including counterfeit products, continues and especially thrives before and during the traditional Hindu festivals celebrated in autumn.

In June, at least 55 residents of the southern state of Tamil Nadu died from poisoning by counterfeit alcohol.

This incident is considered the largest in India in terms of the number of victims of counterfeit alcohol poisoning in 2024.