Rahul Gandhi on Friday raised questions on the state of law and order in Gujarat, days after over 30 deaths – linked to consumption of toxic liquor – were reported. The Congress leader’s questions were directed at the BJP, ruling Gujarat, which is also Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s home state.
“In the dry state of Gujarat, several families have been devastated due to toxic liquor. Regularly, drugs worth billions are being seized in the state. This is a matter of great concern. In the land of Bapu and Sardar Patel, who are these people indulging in such illegal trade? Who are those in power, shielding these mafia members?” the Congress leader tweeted, invoking the freedom fighters.
Rahul Gandhi was referring to 36 deaths in Gujarat hooch tragedy in the Botad district and Dhandhuka taluka of neighbouring Ahmedabad district. Several others fell ill. At least 13 people were detained in the case.
The manufacture and sale of liquor is banned in Gujarat, which is a “dry state”. As per the Gujarat Prohibition Act, police can arrest a person for purchasing, consuming, or serving alcohol without a permit with punishment from three months to five years in prison.
