The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has stepped in on its own to examine the deaths of at least 9 people and critical illness of 39 others following consumption of fake alcohol in Bhavnagar district, Gujarat. The Commission has issued formal notices to the state’s Chief Secretary and police chief, seeking detailed information within fourteen days. The incident involves spurious Indian-Made Foreign Liquor that was being sold in counterfeit bottles and laced with methanol.
What the NHRC is asking for
The Gujarat authorities must provide:
- Current death toll and status of hospitalised patients
- Progress of the ongoing investigation, including how the methanol and raw materials were sourced and distributed
- Details of departmental action taken against suspended police personnel and other officials involved
- Information on relief payments, compensation and medical treatment given to families of the deceased and survivors
- Long-term steps being taken to enforce prohibition laws and prevent similar incidents
According to reports, police uncovered a large manufacturing operation during investigation of a police recruit’s accidental death. The seized materials included chemicals, colouring agents, filled counterfeit bottles, fake branded stickers, bottle caps and packaging material.
What this means for you
If you or someone you know has consumed spurious liquor and fallen ill, this NHRC action signals that the state will be required to provide documented medical care and compensation. The Commission’s intervention puts pressure on local authorities to investigate the entire supply chain of illegal alcohol and track those responsible for manufacturing and distribution. The focus on long-term enforcement measures suggests the government will need to strengthen checks against counterfeit liquor operations in the future. Consumers should remain cautious about purchasing alcohol from unauthorised sources, particularly items in bottles with suspicious packaging or pricing significantly below market rates.