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In the backdrop of these deaths, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis Friday said the government will crack down hard against those responsible for the tragedy.

Fadnavis said, “Eight persons have been nabbed in this case. We have ordered a probe. All those involved in the supply and making of illicit liquor that leads to the deaths of people will be tracked and punished. The police will get to the root of the matter to ascertain the extent of the link.”

“Those hospitalized are being given the best medical treatment. Saving human life is the administration’s top priority. The administration has begun a major operation across Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad to book those involved in making illicit liquor,” he added.

Of the seven casualties reported in Pimpri Chinchwad, two are brothers, Vijay Prakash Rathod, 31, and Rajendra Prakash Rathod, 34, residing in the Phugewadi area.

The police said at least three persons suspected of having consumed hooch are undergoing treatment in different hospitals.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Sandeep Atole, Pimpri Chinchwad police (Zone 1), said medical reports of the victims are awaited.

“So far, the Pimpri Chinchwad police have detained five persons, while the excise department has detained three others, for investigation,” Atole added.

Among the three detained by the excise department is one ‘history sheeter’ Yogesh Wankhede.

Atul Kanade, Superintendent, State Excise Department, said, “We handed over Wankhede to the Pimpri Chinchwad police on Thursday night. Also, our teams seized the liquor supplied by him to other places like Gokhale Nagar in Pune city, to prevent further damage. A probe is on.”

The police alleged that Wankhede played a role in supplying liquor mixed with Methanol.

Asked about the deaths in Pune city, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 6) Jeevan Beniwal said the medical opinion regarding the cause of the death of the deceased persons is awaited.