Three Dead in Suspected Hooch Tragedy in Meerut; Police Launch High-Level Probe

New Delhi, April 4, 2026 — A wave of grief and anger has gripped the Daurala area of Meerut district after three men died following the consumption of suspected spurious liquor on Friday evening. The victims reportedly fell ill shortly after consuming alcohol purchased from a local outlet, prompting senior administrative and police officials to launch an immediate investigation into the source of the brew.

Incident Details and Victims

The tragedy unfolded late Friday, April 3, 2026, when three men—identified as Jitendra (45), Ankit alias Daulat (32), and Baburam (60)—consumed liquor together in the Daurala police station jurisdiction. According to preliminary reports, the men began experiencing severe symptoms, including vomiting, acute stomach pain, and respiratory distress, soon after returning to their homes.

Family members rushed the unconscious men to Aryavart Hospital, a private facility near the local toll plaza. Despite emergency medical intervention, Jitendra and Ankit were declared dead on arrival, while Baburam succumbed during treatment shortly thereafter.

Immediate Police and Excise Action

Following the deaths, senior officials including District Magistrate Dr. V.K. Singh and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Avinash Pandey visited the hospital and the site where the liquor was allegedly purchased.

“We have formed four dedicated police teams to investigate all possible angles behind these deaths. While we await the post-mortem results to confirm the exact cause, we are treating this with the utmost seriousness,” stated SSP Avinash Pandey.

The Excise Department has since conducted a raid on the government-authorized liquor shop mentioned in the family’s complaint. Key actions taken so far include:

• Seizure of Stock: Authorities have seized multiple cartons of liquor and empty tetra packs from the premises for forensic testing.
• Detentions: At least two individuals, including the shop’s salesman, have been taken into custody for questioning.
• Forensic Collection: Samples of “Dilkash” and “Bunty Jeera Masala” brand liquor found at the scene have been sent to a forensic laboratory to check for toxic substances like methyl alcohol.

Community Reaction and Safety Concerns

The sudden deaths sparked a brief protest at the hospital, with angry relatives demanding strict action against the liquor vendors and a complete crackdown on illicit alcohol trade in the region.

While reports suggest that approximately nine cartons from the same batch had been sold throughout the day, no other cases of illness have been reported as of Saturday morning. However, as a precautionary measure, the district administration has halted the sale of the specific batch in question across the locality.

What’s Next?

The bodies of the deceased have been sent for a post-mortem examination, and their viscera have been preserved for further chemical analysis. The police are also using surveillance units and the confidential branch to trace the entire supply chain of the suspected “poisonous” batch.

Authorities have assured the families that if any negligence or adulteration is found, the culprits will be charged under stringent sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Excise Act.