At least 36 people have died and more than 60 are receiving treatment in hospitals after consuming tainted liquor in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, a government spokesperson reported on Thursday.

Since Wednesday, over 100 individuals experiencing symptoms such as vomiting, stomach ache, and diarrhea have been admitted to hospitals in the Kallakurichi district, located 250 km (150 miles) from the state capital, Chennai.

In response to the incident, the state government has taken disciplinary action against at least 10 officials, including the district's chief administrator and its police chief.

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed his deep shock and sadness over the tragedy, vowing to take action against those who failed to prevent it.

Police have arrested four individuals connected to the sale of the illicit liquor and have seized 200 liters of the methanol-mixed alcoholic drink, according to the state government.

Deaths from illegally produced alcohol, often referred to as "hooch" or "country liquor," are a common occurrence in India, where many people cannot afford branded spirits. The Tamil Nadu government is also taking steps to identify those involved in the production of methanol, a toxic chemical typically used for industrial purposes.

This tragic incident follows a similar event last year in a nearby district of Tamil Nadu, where more than a dozen people died after consuming tainted alcohol. (ILKHA)