Jagdish Devda Meets Dilip Puri’s Family, Promises Strict Action in Illegal Liquor Case

Madhya Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Jagdish Devda on Tuesday met the family members of late Town Inspector Dilip Puri at Barmandal and assured them that the state government would take stringent action against everyone involved in the alleged illegal liquor network linked to his death.

Puri, the officer in charge of Khategaon police station, was killed in Dewas district after allegedly being run over by a truck carrying illicit liquor during an interception operation. Police investigations have since expanded into what authorities describe as an interstate liquor-smuggling network.

‘Entire Government Stands With the Family’

Devda described the incident as deeply tragic and said he had travelled to meet Puri’s family after receiving information about the case.

He said:

“The entire government stands with the family in this difficult hour.”

The Deputy Chief Minister said investigators had traced what he described as much of the chain behind the incident and that several people had already been taken into custody.

Police reports said the alleged driver and other people linked to the suspected smuggling network had been detained as investigators examined the source and destination of the liquor consignment.

Police Probe Alleged Interstate Liquor Racket

According to police, Puri had been leading a team acting on intelligence about illicit liquor allegedly being transported from Harda district towards Gujarat.

The truck was intercepted near Sandalpur Phata in Dewas district. Police allege that the driver attempted to escape and ran over Puri during the operation.

Investigators later recovered the vehicle and a large quantity of liquor. Reports said more than 1,800 litres of liquor was found concealed in the truck.

The allegations remain subject to investigation and court proceedings.

Devda Promises ‘Strictest Possible Action’

Speaking about the Dilip Puri illegal liquor case, Devda said the government would invoke stringent provisions under the Excise Act and other applicable laws.

He said nobody found responsible for the incident or the illegal liquor trade would be spared.

The Madhya Pradesh Excise Department has already suspended three officials over alleged dereliction of duty, while licences of two liquor shops in Harda were also suspended after investigators examined the supply chain.

₹1 Crore Assistance Announced for Family

Devda said Chief Minister Mohan Yadav had announced financial assistance of ₹1 crore for Puri’s family.

He also said the government would provide a compassionate appointment to Puri’s wife at the rank of Sub-Inspector and grant martyr status to the deceased officer.

Puri was laid to rest with full state honours at his native Barmandal village following his death.

Support Sought for Children’s Education

Devda said Puri’s family had also requested government support for the education of his children.

The Deputy Chief Minister said he would speak to the relevant authorities to ensure arrangements were made.

He also said the government would examine the possibility of giving Puri’s wife a posting at the Commissioner’s office.

Government Vows Crackdown on Illegal Liquor

The incident has intensified scrutiny of illicit liquor networks in Madhya Pradesh.

Authorities have ordered further investigation into the suspected supply chain, while the state government has said stronger enforcement measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents.

The Dilip Puri illegal liquor case comes amid wider concern over illegal and spurious liquor in Dewas and adjoining areas, following several recent deaths allegedly linked to contaminated alcohol.