A bad batch of bootleg liquor has killed at least 17 people and sent another 122 to hospital in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, officials say.

• Poisoned beer kills 56 at funeral

Most of the victims had been among more than 200 people who had gathered to watch a cricket match on Sunday evening in a village on the outskirts of the state capital of Lucknow.

While officials said 17 people had died, unconfirmed reports early on Tuesday put the death toll at 22.

Government official Anil Garg said 14 of those hospitalised were in serious condition, and some had lost their eyesight.

District official RK Pandey said police arrested the shop owner who sold the 200-millilitre pouches of alcohol for about 30 US cents each.