The death toll in the suspected hooch tragedy in Maharashtra’s Pune region has climbed to 16, with fatalities now reported from multiple localities across Pimpri-Chinchwad and adjoining areas.

 

According to the excise department, the bootlegger who allegedly supplied the liquor to both areas has been detained and booked at Dapodi police station.

According to initial information, eight deaths were reported from the Dapodi and Phugewadi areas of Pimpri-Chinchwad.

Three more people died in Pune’s Kale Padal locality, while two deaths were reported from Hadapsar. Authorities confirmed that the overall toll has now reached 16.

Officials said several victims allegedly consumed illicit liquor before falling critically ill. Many reportedly lost consciousness and suffered breathing complications before being declared dead.

The incident has once again brought the spotlight on the illegal liquor trade operating in and around Pune. Local authorities said a case has been registered against an alleged unauthorised liquor seller, Yogesh Wankhede, and an investigation is underway.

‘Several illegal liquor sellers are operating in the Pimpri-Chinchwad area, and Yogesh Wankhede is one of them. The victims had allegedly consumed liquor from his place,’ a local official said.

The deaths have triggered sharp political reactions, with local NCP leader Yogesh Bahal demanding a high-level inquiry into the incident. He accused police and authorities of allowing the illicit liquor network to function openly.

‘The hooch is being manufactured and sold under the nose of the police. Instead of taking action, they are part of the racket that has claimed lives,’ Bahal alleged.

DCP Sandeep Atole said seven people prima facie died due to suspected spurious liquor consumption in Pune’s Phugewadi area, adding that eight people have been detained while detailed investigations will begin after post-mortem reports arrive.

Police, however, have not officially confirmed that all 15 deaths were caused solely due to hooch consumption. Authorities said factors such as heat-related complications and existing medical conditions are also being examined.

Post-mortem reports are awaited to establish the exact cause of death in each case.