The death toll from tainted liquor in Tamil Nadu has risen to 47, with over 100 hospitalized, according to a government official on Friday.

Since Wednesday, more than 150 people have needed treatment for symptoms after consuming methanol-mixed liquor in Kallakurichi district.

By Friday morning, 118 people remained in hospitals. On Thursday, officials reported at least 36 deaths. Police have arrested four individuals for illicit liquor sales and seized 200 liters of the drink.

The government has taken disciplinary action against 10 officials for failing to prevent the incident and is working to identify those involved in methanol production, Reuters reported.

Videos showed state ministers and opposition leaders visiting the district, with mass cremations reminiscent of the COVID-19 pandemic. Similar incidents occurred last year in a nearby district.

Written by B.C. Begley