Toddy adulteration deaths spark public outcry, Telangana Excise Department under scrutiny for lax monitoring

Three deaths and multiple hospitalisations linked to suspected toddy adulteration have raised serious questions over the Telangana Excise Department's declining enforcement. Families of victims demand stricter monitoring as the department launches an internal probe and books five cases.

Hyderabad: The recent deaths and hospitalizations due to suspected adulteration of toddy have cast a shadow on the effectiveness of the Excise Department’s visibility and vigilance.

Once known for frequent raids and stringent checks on toddy compounds, currently the department’s monitoring seems to have slackened, raising serious concerns about public health and regulatory oversight.

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Over the past week, three people died and several others including women fell seriously ill after consuming toddy suspected to be laced with harmful chemicals.

Families of the victims and local activists have alleged that illegal practices such as mixing synthetic intoxicants and harmful additives were going unchecked due to lack of enforcement.

Until a few years ago, the Excise Department regularly conducted raids on toddy tapping zones and retail shops. Special teams would randomly collect samples for laboratory testing, scrutinize toddy storage facilities, and act against licence holders violating norms. However, such visible enforcement has drastically reduced in recent times.

“The Excise Department officials used to be more active and had more visibility earlier. There were regular drives to check for adulteration and illegal supply. Now, it appears routine inspections have taken a backseat,” alleged a relative of a person who is currently admitted in the hospital. The families of victims urge the government to reintroduce strict protocols for toddy supply chains and conduct sample testing at random intervals.

Officials from the department have stated they are looking into the matter and are awaiting toxicology reports from hospitals. They are waiting for more clarity on the matter.

It is learnt that an internal inquiry has been launched and the regional officers were instructed to step up inspections.
“We are planning to increase our special drives. Any licencee found guilty of adulteration will face immediate suspension and criminal action,” said a senior official from the excise department.

Five cases were booked by the excise officials until now and as investigations continue, the toddy adulteration reminds how lapses in regulatory vigilance can have deadly consequences.