India, July 17 -- The families of two Australian teenagers who died in the 2024 Laos methanol poisoning tragedy have criticised the charges expected to be filed against those allegedly responsible, calling them far too lenient. The incident, which occurred in the popular backpacker destination of Vang Vieng, claimed the lives of six foreign tourists after they consumed alcohol contaminated with methanol at a hostel.

According to the victims' families, the accused are expected to face charges carrying a maximum penalty of one year in prison and a fine of about 1,600 Australian dollars if convicted. They described the proposed punishment as unacceptable given the severity of the tragedy.

Australia's government has also expressed disappoin...