In Wayanad district, Kerala, a 38-year-old tribal man named Prasad died after consuming 'arishtam,' a traditional Ayurvedic fermented tonic that allegedly contained intoxicants. He was initially treated at Mananthavady Medical College Hospital on April 7 for vomiting blood and later transferred to Kozhikode Medical College Hospital, where he succumbed to complications. Locals have raised concerns that 'arishtam' is being misused as an intoxicant, particularly among tribal communities. Following protests, police intervened and closed down Sree Vinayaka Pharmaceuticals, the outlet selling the tonic, due to lack of proper authorization and medical supervision. The police are collecting statements and hospital records, and samples of the tonic will undergo laboratory testing to determine its contents. Residents are advocating for stringent action against illegal sales to safeguard the health of vulnerable communities.