Methanol Oplosan Alcohol Party, 47 People In India Died

JAKARTA - The death toll from the adulterated liquor case in Tamil Nadu state, southern India, increased to 47 people. More than 100 people are still being treated in hospital.

Since Wednesday, June 19, more than 150 people, suffering from vomiting, stomach pain and diarrhea, need treatment after drinking Methanol-containing liquor made in Kallakurichi district.

On Friday, June 21 morning, 118 people were still being treated at hospitals in the district and its surroundings, government officials said.

Police arrested four people for selling illegal liquor and confiscated 200 liters of the alcoholic drink. Authorities also took disciplinary action against 10 officials for failing to prevent it.

Deaths from illegally produced alcoholic beverages, known locally as "hooch" or " rural liquor", are common occurrences in India, where many are unable to afford branded alcoholic beverages.

Tamil Nadu's government said it was taking steps to identify people involved in the production of methanol toxic chemicals commonly used for industrial purposes.