Toxic Cough Syrup: A Tragedy Unfolds, Alarming Authorities and Families

A harrowing tragedy has struck Madhya Pradesh as 14 children lost their lives due to a toxic cough syrup, prompting immediate arrests and legal action. A renowned doctor, Dr. Praveen Soni, was detained, accused of negligence for prescribing the harmful Coldrif cough syrup manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceutical.

The government has reacted swiftly, imposing a statewide ban on the controversial Coldrif after samples revealed it contained diethylene glycol, a hazardous chemical. Disclosures from the Tamil Nadu drug control authorities further heightened concerns, attributing three other deaths in Rajasthan to this adulterated syrup.

Amid escalating alarm, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation launched extensive inspections across six states, targeting various manufacturing units. In addition to seizing existing stock of Coldrif, the government initiated extensive testing of other products from the same manufacturer, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

(With inputs from agencies.)