India, Oct. 23 -- Twenty-two methanol companies, whose licences were suspended or cancelled following the deaths of 22 people in a suspected spurious liquor tragedy in Pune in May, have appealed to Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) minister Narhari Zirwal, seeking relief from the action initiated by FDA commissioner Tukaram Mundhe.

The companies submitted a written representation to the minister last week. Sources said a few legislators also supported the move.

Zirwal, however, denied receiving any letters from legislators seeking to reverse the action against the companies. "No letters have been received from the elected members requesting the revocation of the cancellation or suspension of these companies' licenses. The i...