Nineteen people, including four women, were hospitalised in Hyderabad on Tuesday night (July 8, 2025) after allegedly consuming adulterated toddy in the Kukatpally area. One of the patients, a 78-year-old man, is reported to be in critical condition.

According to Medchal district excise officer Shaik Fayazuddeen, 15 individuals were admitted to Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS), two to Gandhi Hospital, and one each to Ramdevrao Hospital and Prathima Hospital. The patients, many of whom are daily wage workers from localities like Hyderanagar and Indiranagar, displayed symptoms such as dizziness, low blood sugar, and diarrhoea.

Initial reports traced the illnesses to toddy consumed from specific shops in Kukatpally. “A preliminary investigation revealed the toddy might have been adulterated, possibly with sedatives like alprazolam and diazepam,” said Fayazuddeen. The 78-year-old man’s condition worsened due to pre-existing health issues including high blood sugar, and he is now on ventilator support.

As a precaution, three toddy outlets—located in Hyderanagar, Shamshiguda, and KPHB Colony—have been sealed, their stock destroyed, and licences suspended. Samples have been sent to the lab for testing.

The Prohibition and Excise Department is continuing its investigation and has deployed personnel at major hospitals in Kukatpally to monitor for similar cases and ensure prompt medical attention.