A 23-year-old man has died and three others remain under medical treatment after reportedly consuming excessive alcohol during a Holi celebration in Atrai upazila of Naogaon district. Local authorities confirmed the fatality on Wednesday, prompting a police investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The deceased, identified as Naeem, died at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital while undergoing treatment on Wednesday afternoon. According to police, he and three friends fell seriously ill after drinking alcohol during festivities in Dubai village under Bishā Union of Atrai.
Officer-in-Charge Abdul Karim of Atrai Police Station said preliminary information indicates that the death was linked to heavy alcohol consumption during the celebration of Holi, a major Hindu religious festival known for its vibrant colours, music, and social gatherings.
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Illness During Festival Celebration
Local residents reported that the incident occurred on Tuesday when members of the Sanatan (Hindu) community were observing Holi with traditional rituals and communal celebrations. Amid the festivities, four friends reportedly consumed alcohol together.
Witnesses said the group soon began to exhibit alarming symptoms, including dizziness, vomiting, and severe weakness. As their conditions deteriorated rapidly, villagers rushed them to the Atrai Upazila Health Complex for emergency medical attention.
Doctors at the health complex initially treated the victims but quickly referred them to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, the largest specialised medical facility in the region, as their conditions worsened.
Despite medical intervention, Naeem’s condition continued to decline. Hospital authorities confirmed that he died at approximately 5:00 pm on Wednesday while receiving treatment.
Other Victims Receiving Treatment
Three other individuals who consumed alcohol during the same gathering remain hospitalised. All are residents of Dubai village in Atrai upazila.
| Name | Age | Father’s Name | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anil | 18 | Sunil | Under treatment |
| Milan | 25 | Bikash | Under treatment |
| Piyas | 21 | Pronob | Under treatment |
Hospital sources said the three survivors are being closely monitored by medical staff. Although detailed updates about their health conditions have not yet been released, doctors indicated that their symptoms are consistent with acute alcohol intoxication.
Police Inquiry into Alcohol Source
Police have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident. While excessive drinking is believed to be the primary factor, authorities are also examining whether the alcohol consumed may have been adulterated or illegally produced, which is a recurring concern in parts of rural Bangladesh.
Officer-in-Charge Abdul Karim confirmed that police had already visited the scene and were collecting statements from witnesses and residents of the area.
“We have received initial information that the young man died after consuming a large quantity of alcohol during the Holi festival,” he said. “Three others are still undergoing treatment. Our officers have inspected the location, and the matter is being investigated. Legal action will be taken based on the findings.”
Growing Safety Concerns During Festive Gatherings
The tragedy has sparked concern among residents about safety during large community celebrations, particularly when alcohol is involved. In rural areas, locally brewed or unregulated alcoholic beverages occasionally circulate during social events and festivals, posing potential health risks.
Community leaders in Atrai have urged greater vigilance and awareness during such gatherings to prevent similar incidents in the future. They have also called on authorities to strengthen monitoring of illegal alcohol production and distribution.
Officials said further details would emerge once medical reports are completed and the police investigation progresses.