Pune: Union minister of state for social justice and empowerment Ramdas Athawale on Sunday said stringent measures are needed to permanently eliminate illegal hooch manufacturing units.He was speaking to reporters after visiting the families of victims of the recent hooch tragedy. Athawale also said that family members of the deceased should be provided govt jobs.He said there is still no clear information about the chemicals used in the manufacture of illicit liquor. “Hundreds of people have died after consuming spurious liquor in different parts of the country. A detailed inquiry into such illegal factories is necessary. These units are often located in hilly areas. The police and the excise department should jointly conduct operations against them,” he said.Athawale noted that many people have lost their lives after consuming illicit liquor. Although authorities have taken action against hooch manufacturing units in the past, such factories continue to resurface. “The issue has not been resolved. A permanent solution must be found,” he said.“The relatives of the victims have demanded jobs. I have spoken to the authorities and the state govt in this regard. Most of the victims were labourers. Their heirs should be immediately accommodated in govt jobs on a contractual basis,” he said.According to police officials, most of the victims were from Phugewadi in Pimpri-Chinchwad and Pandhare Mala in Hadapsar. Forensic analysis revealed that they had consumed methanol-laced illicit liquor.Shiv Sena, too, demanded strict action against illegal hooch manufacturing units. According to a statement issued by the party, its workers have identified 42 locations where such factories are allegedly operating.“The authorities should launch a special drive within the next 48 hours and demolish these illegal units. Otherwise, Shiv Sena workers will launch a strong agitation,” said Pramod Bhangire, the party’s city unit chief.
