Two dead, five hospitalised after drinking 'toddy'

Two men died and five others were hospitalised after allegedly drinking 'toddy' in Saran district.
The toddy seller, identified as Jogendra Chaudhary, was arrested, police said today.
The men complained of severe stomachache after drinking 'toddy', a fermented beverage produced from sap of palm trees, at a shop near their village at Sikti Khanja last night. They were rushed to a nearby primary health centre, but two died on the way, a police official said.
The deceased have been identified as Pappu Rai (26) and Harihar Manjhi (80).
Five persons have been admitted to a health centre. Two of them are recuperating there, while two others were sent to government hospital in Chapra, the district headquarters. One person, whose condition is stated to be serious, has been referred to Patna for treatment.

The toddy seller, identified as Jogendra Chaudhary, was arrested, he said.