NHRC notices to the Government of Bihar over reported hooch tragedy resulting in several deaths

New Delhi, 16th December, 2022

The National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, India has taken suo motu cognizance of the media reports that several people have died after allegedly consuming spurious liquor in Saran district of Bihar. Reportedly, the sale and consumption of alcohol was completely banned in Bihar in April, 2016, though its implementation has been patchy.

The Commission has observed that the contents of the media reports, if true, raise concern for human rights. Apparently, the reported incident indicates the failure of the State Government to implementation of its policy of prohibition of sale and consumption of illicit/spurious liquor in the State of Bihar.

Accordingly, it has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police, Bihar calling for a detailed report in the matter including the status of the FIR registered by the police, medical treatment of the victims who are hospitalized, and compensation if any, granted to the aggrieved families. The Commission would also like to know about the action taken against the delinquent officers, responsible for the tragedy. The response from the authorities is expected at the earliest but not later than 4 weeks from the issuance of these orders.

According to the media reports, carried on 15th December, 2022, the deaths have been reported across three villages under Mashrakh, Ishuapur and Amnaur police stations of Marhaura sub-division in Chhapra area. The police suspect that the villagers might have purchased the liquor from a common shop in these adjoining areas. The family members of the deceased have, reportedly, stated that more than 50 people had consumed country-made liquor.

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