Mass Illness Outbreak in Pudukottai Linked to Adulterated Toddy
In a concerning incident near Vadakadu in Pudukottai district, scores of people fell ill after allegedly consuming spurious toddy, leading to the arrest of three individuals by local authorities. The police have identified the accused as G Thangasamy, 58, from Rajapalayam; M Prabhu, 58, from Vadakadu; and M Karikalan, 47, from Melapullandviduthy.
Symptoms and Hospitalizations Reported
According to sources, numerous villagers experienced severe symptoms including vomiting, dizziness, and diarrhoea shortly after drinking the toddy, which is suspected to have been laced with unknown harmful substances. While a significant number of affected individuals were admitted to government hospitals for treatment, many others sought medical care at private hospitals and clinics across the area, highlighting the widespread impact of this incident.
Details of the Incident and Police Action
The outbreak occurred near the Pullanviduthy Mariamman temple in Alangudi taluk. Sources revealed that the toddy had been tapped from roadside palm trees and was being sold during the morning hours at a rate of 100 rupees per litre. Residents from villages including Vadakadu, Mangadu, Pullanviduthi, and Anavayal were among those who consumed the drink, leading to the health crisis.
In response, a police team conducted an inspection of the site on Sunday, seizing pots used for tapping the toddy and plastic cans employed in its distribution. This swift action underscores the authorities' commitment to addressing food safety violations and preventing further harm to the community.
