Aligarh Court Delivers Verdict in Deadly 2021 Hooch Case
A court in Aligarh delivered a significant verdict on Saturday. It convicted a liquor smuggler for his role in the 2021 hooch tragedy. This tragic incident claimed the lives of 106 people across several villages in Uttar Pradesh.
Guilty of Supplying Toxic Alcohol
The court found Pramod Gupta guilty of supplying adulterated liquor. This alcohol contained methanol, a dangerous industrial chemical. Consumption of methanol can lead to blindness or even death.
Additional district government counsel Ravikant Sharma provided details. He stated that Pramod Gupta was identified as the main supplier. Gupta operated within a network spanning the Lodha, Karsua, and Jawan areas of Aligarh.
Additional District Judge 14, Amit Kumar Tiwari, presided over the case. The judge held Gupta responsible for selling the poisonous liquor that caused the fatalities.
Sentencing Scheduled for January 20
The court has already determined Gupta's guilt. However, he did not appear in court to hear the verdict. As a result, the court issued a non-bailable warrant against him.
The sentencing date was announced in his absence. The quantum of punishment will be declared on January 20. This marks a crucial step in the legal proceedings.
Background of the 2021 Tragedy
The deaths began in late May 2021. Villagers consumed the toxic alcohol, leading to widespread loss of life. The incident shocked the region and prompted extensive investigations.
Ravikant Sharma provided further context on related cases. He mentioned that out of 33 total cases, two resulted in convictions in 2024. Two other cases ended in acquittals in 2025.
This current case against Pramod Gupta is the fifth where sentencing is now due. The legal process continues to address the complexities of this large-scale tragedy.
The conviction represents a measure of accountability for the devastating loss of life. Families of the victims have awaited justice for years. The upcoming sentencing will be closely watched by the affected communities.
