03 October, 2006. CUDDALORE — At least fourteen people from Sonanchavadi village, and one from Vairankuppam colony, in SIPCOT, Cuddalore, had to be hospitalised this morning after consuming poisoned water. It is suspected that someone intentionally added a toxic pesticide to the overhead tank storing water to the village. People started reporting symptoms after 6.30 a.m. Most of the victims were women. Victims described their symptoms as giddiness, nausea and a burning sensation in the stomach. Doctors at the Government Hospital suggested that the pesticide Novacrone may have been added to the water.
According to local reports, relief was quick and efficient. The victims were removed to the Government Hospital in private vehicles loaned by neighboring villagers. The Fire Department flushed out the overhead tank. The Police has begun investigations. The local legislator, Mr. Ayyappan visited the victims in the hospital, and urged the hospital authorities to extend quality care to the victims. The motive behind the crime is not yet known.
Local body elections are around the corner, and the election campaign has begun all over Tamilnadu in full earnest.
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