The protesting villagers, including the Sarpanch, Ramjibhai Rabari, blamed the many accidental deaths in the city on the illicit brewing of liquor in their village.

Vadodara Rural Police Station, however, said that Sharma's son Vikas testified that his father had a blood pressure problem, which must have caused him to lose control over his vehicle. Sharma was a resident of Purshottam Nagar on Harni Road, near Kotali.

The villagers, however, allege that he had come to the village for a drink and while returning, he had lost control over his vehicle and succumbed to the injuries.

"Our village is fast becoming a watering hole for liquor addicts and highway workers who want a quick drink. There are at least five such illegal breweries, with outsiders coming here for a quick drink. Now, even the local youth are getting addicted to it," said Rabari.