Excise Minister Confirms RDC-Level Inquiry into Ganjam Hooch Tragedy

Berhampur: In response to the recent hooch tragedy in Chikiti, Ganjam district, which resulted in two deaths, the Odisha government has announced an RDC-level investigation. The probe, led by the Revenue Divisional Commissioner (RDC), is expected to submit its findings within two months.

Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan confirmed the Chief Minister’s directive, highlighting the state’s commitment to taking stringent action against those involved in the incident. The minister stressed ongoing statewide crackdowns on illegal liquor operations, with raids since August 20 leading to the identification of 217 illegal liquor dens and the arrest of 117 individuals.

Harichandan stated that the government is determined to eradicate the menace of spurious liquor, ensuring justice for the victims of the tragedy. In a decisive move, the government has begun demolishing illegal liquor dens using bulldozers. Additionally, the Excise Superintendent has been transferred on charges of dereliction of duty due to the Chikiti incident.

Notably, the Odisha government has also transferred two officials and suspended Berhampur Excise Superintendent Pradip Panigrahi, reinforcing its commitment to accountability in the aftermath of the spurious liquor tragedy.