Telangana Human Rights Commission Demands Report on Fatal Toddy Adulteration

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The Telangana Human Rights Commission (TGHRC) has taken serious cognizance of a recent incident involving adulterated toddy that led to multiple fatalities and numerous hospitalizations. The Commission has formally requested a comprehensive report from the state’s Revenue (Prohibition & Excise) Department, due by August 20, 2025, seeking detailed information on the tragic event and the measures being taken to prevent future occurrences.

The directive comes after an online complaint was lodged with the TGHRC regarding the consumption of tainted toddy in and around Kukatpally and Hydernagar, areas within Hyderabad. Preliminary findings and media reports, reviewed by the Commission, indicate that at least eight lives were lost, and dozens more were admitted to hospitals, including NIMS and Gandhi Hospital, suffering from severe symptoms such as diarrhea, low blood pressure, and dizziness.

The TGHRC’s notice to the Principal Secretary of the Revenue (Prohibition & Excise) Department seeks clarification on several critical aspects. Firstly, it demands factual verification of the incident, including the precise number of deaths and individuals affected. Secondly, the Commission has asked for details on the actions taken against those responsible, including the number of arrests made and any departmental inquiries initiated against officials suspected of negligence. It has been reported that at least nine individuals, including a prime suspect, were arrested by excise officials, and over 400 liters of adulterated toddy were seized. The Station House Officer (SHO) of the Balanagar excise station, Venu Kumar, has also been suspended in connection with the case.

Furthermore, the TGHRC is seeking information on whether any compensation has been provided to the families of the deceased. Crucially, the Commission has also demanded details on the preventive mechanisms currently in place across Telangana to regulate toddy tapping and distribution, and to monitor and curb its adulteration. This includes measures to prevent the recurrence of such tragic incidents that undermine public health and safety.

Toddy, a traditional alcoholic beverage derived from the sap of palm trees, is consumed widely in rural and semi-urban areas of Telangana. However, its natural potency is often enhanced through adulteration with harmful chemicals, including sedatives like alprazolam, diazepam, and chlordiazepoxide, to increase its intoxicating effect and volume, often leading to severe health complications, addiction, and even death.

The TGHRC’s intervention wants its mandate to investigate human rights violations and ensure accountability from public servants. The outcome of this inquiry and the report from the Revenue Department will be crucial in determining the accountability of those involved and the efficacy of the state’s regulatory framework in safeguarding its citizens from such illicit and dangerous practices. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on August 20.