Chennai: At least 34 people died and more than 66 people were hospitalised after reportedly consuming illicit liquor in Tamil Nadu's Kallakurichi district, officials said on Thursday. The officials have expressed concern that the death toll may go up.

Kallakurichi District Collector MS Prasanth visited those undergoing treatment in Government Medical College Hospital in the district.

Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed shock over the deaths and said that action had been taken against officials who failed to prevent it.

"I was shocked and saddened to hear the news of the deaths of people who had consumed adulterated liquor in Kallakurichi. Those involved in the crime have been arrested in this matter. Action has also been taken against the officials who failed to prevent it," Stalin said in a post on X.

"Immediate action will be taken if the public informs about those involved in such crimes. Such crimes that ruin the society will be suppressed with an iron fist," he added.

TN Governor RN Ravi condoled the deaths and wished for a speedy recovery of the victims.

"I was very shocked to know that many lives were lost in Kallakurichi due to consumption of counterfeit liquor. Many others are fighting for their lives in critical condition. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and a speedy recovery to those admitted to the hospitals," a post shared by Tamil Nadu Raj Bhavan mentioned.

According to police, a group of laborers purchased liquor from illegal vendors on Tuesday night. They began experiencing severe symptoms upon returning home, including headaches, vomiting, dizziness, abdominal pain, disorientation and eye discomfort, leading to their hospitalization.

A 49-year old man, K Kannukutti, has been arrested and an analysis of about 200 litres of illicit arrack seized from him has disclosed the presence of deadly methanol, the government said.

BJP state president K Annamalai criticized the government over the incident, calling it shocking and demanding accountability from the Excise Minister. Chief Minister M K Stalin has ordered a CB-CID probe to ensure a comprehensive investigation.

Kallakurichi District Collector Sravan Kumar Jatavath has been transferred and Superintendent of Police Samay Singh Meena suspended, a statement said.

(With inputs from agencies)