Deadly Cough Syrup Tragedy: Madhya Pradesh Cracks Down

The Madhya Pradesh government has initiated disciplinary actions, suspending two drug inspectors and a Deputy Director of the food and drug administration, following the deaths of 14 children due to suspected renal failure linked to a 'toxic' cough syrup.

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, following a high-level meeting, reassigned the state's Drug Controller, Dinesh Maurya, and vowed that those responsible for the tragedy will face severe consequences. The officials targeted in the crackdown include Gaurav Sharma and Sharad Kumar Jain, drug inspectors in Chhindwara and Jabalpur, respectively, and Deputy Director Shobhit Costa.

The state has banned the implicated Coldrif cough syrup, produced by Sresan Pharmaceutical, after samples revealed toxic substances. A special investigation team has been established to examine the case, leading to the arrest of Dr. Praveen Soni for alleged negligence.

(With inputs from agencies.)