At least five people have died under mysterious circumstances following a 'tilak' ceremony in Bihar's Mathiya village, prompting a probe into possible liquor consumption and other causes.

Tragedy Strikes Mathiya Village After Joyous Ceremony

In the quiet village of Mathiya in Bihar's Rohtas district, what began as a celebration turned into heartbreak. On February 14, Poojan Singh hosted a 'tilak' function at his home for his son, a traditional pre-wedding ritual filled with family gatherings and festivities. Guests from nearby areas, including Nasriganj and Akodhigola, joined in the merrymaking.

But the joy was short-lived. The very next day, Poojan's other son, Lallu Singh, fell suddenly ill and passed away on February 16. This shocking loss sent ripples of worry through the community. Within three days, four more relatives who had attended the event also died under similar puzzling conditions. Villagers whispered about a common thread linking these tragedies, turning a time of festivity into one of profound grief.

Local authorities acted swiftly, dispatching teams from the excise department and district administration to the scene. They arrived to gather statements and evidence, determined to unravel the mystery behind the rapid deaths. The incident has cast a shadow over the village, leaving families in mourning and the community on edge.

Speculation Mounts Over Liquor Consumption

As news spread, rumors quickly took hold in Mathiya. Many pointed fingers at alleged liquor consumption during the 'tilak' ceremony, a sensitive issue in Bihar where alcohol is strictly prohibited. Unconfirmed reports even suggested that two cooks who prepared food for the event died after returning home, though officials have dismissed these claims for lack of verification.

Police and excise officials, including Assistant Excise Commissioner Tariq Mahmood, have interviewed family members and attendees. Preliminary findings hint at other possibilities, such as one death potentially linked to a dog bite. Rohtas Superintendent of Police Roshan Kumar emphasized that no conclusions can be drawn until the full inquiry report is complete. All angles are under scrutiny to ascertain the truth.

We have spoken to the family and collected preliminary information; while liquor is one angle, we are also looking into natural causes and other factors to ensure a thorough probe, as these deaths have deeply affected the village," said Assistant Excise Commissioner Tariq Mahmood.

The social media buzz amplified the story, drawing official attention and underscoring how quickly local incidents can gain statewide notice in today's connected world.

Investigation Underway Amid Community Shock

The probe in Mathiya continues with teams combing the village for clues. Post-mortem examinations and medical records are being reviewed to pinpoint the exact causes of death. Health and safety at large gatherings have come under renewed focus, with residents voicing fears over hidden risks in such events.

This tragedy echoes concerns in rural Bihar, where communal functions often bring together hundreds, sometimes exposing vulnerabilities to food, water, or spurious substances. Officials urge calm while assuring transparency in their findings. The family of Poojan Singh remains devastated, grappling with multiple losses in quick succession.

Community leaders have called for stricter vigilance during weddings and rituals to prevent future mishaps. As the investigation deepens, the village holds its breath for answers that might bring closure and prevent similar sorrows. The focus now is on supporting the bereaved and restoring normalcy to Mathiya's daily life.

In summary, the deaths following the 'tilak' ceremony in Mathiya village have sparked a multi-agency investigation into suspected liquor links and other causes, leaving a community in grief while highlighting safety needs at social events.

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