Hooch tragedy: Akhilesh Yadav hikes compensation to Rs 5 lakh

LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav today hiked the ex-gratia to Rs five lakh from Rs 2 lakh for the kin of those who died after consuming spurious liquor in Etah and Farrukhabad districts.

"The Chief Minister has decided that Rs five lakh will be provided to the next of kin of those who lost their lives in the hooch tragedy," an official spokesman said.

Akhilesh had earlier announced a compensation of Rs two lakh from his discretionary fund but considering the weak financial condition of the affected families, the amount has been raised, the spokesman said.

He also directed the officials concerned to take prompt action in checking the manufacture and sale of illicit liquor and arrest all those involved in it, the spokesman added.

Earlier, BSP supremo Mayawati had criticised Akhilesh Yadav for giving a measly amount as compensation.

A total of 39 people have lost their lives in Etah and Farrukhabad districts since last week after consuming spurious liquor.