Death toll in Pune hooch tragedy climbs to 15, cops arrest eight; CM promises to 'dismantle entire spurious liquor ecosystem'

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has ordered a crackdown on the illicit liquor trade following at least 14-15 deaths in Pune due to methanol-laced spurious liquor. The Pune police and Excise authorities suspect the liquor was laced with toxic substances, though the exact cause of death will be confirmed after post-mortem reports are received. At least three people remain in critical condition. Eight individuals have been arrested, including the bootlegger and illicit liquor joint owner, Yogesh Wankhede.