Protesters allege earlier plaints about spurious toddy ignored
Hyderabad: The deaths of five persons after consuming adulterated toddy triggered public outrage in Kukatpally, where locals staged a protest outside a toddy compound, demanding strict action and tighter regulation. Protesters alleged that earlier complaints about spurious toddy had been ignored by officials.
As the protest intensified on Wednesday morning, police reached the spot and dispersed the crowd. “Can’t believe this is being taken so lightly. It is an act that puts so many lives at risk,” said one protester, a relative of one of the victims. Following the protest, officials sealed the toddy compound and arrested all five persons accused of selling the spurious drink.
Excise officials suspect that sedatives such as alprazolam may have been added to increase the toddy’s potency. While small doses may go unnoticed, regular drinkers could unknowingly consume dangerous levels over time. During the monsoon, spoiled toddy is also reportedly masked with chemicals. Officials believe a similar mix was used in this case and are awaiting lab reports to confirm the ingredients.
Past toddy-linked incidents in Telangana:
April 10, 2025 – Over 100 hospitalised after consuming spurious toddy in Kamareddy
October 29, 2024 – Youth dies after drinking adulterated toddy in Nagarkurnool
April 14, 2023 – Three dead in Mahabubnagar due to spurious toddy
January 10, 2021 – One dead, 143 hospitalised in Vikarabad after toddy consumption
