Indian Police Investigate Cough Syrup Maker After Child Deaths

Post by : Monika

In October 2025, India's financial crime agency conducted searches at seven locations connected to Sresan Pharmaceutical Manufacturer. This company is linked to the deaths of at least 19 children in Madhya Pradesh after consuming a toxic cough syrup.

Toxic Syrup Leads to Tragedy

The cough syrup, named Coldrif, was found to contain diethylene glycol, a harmful chemical, at levels nearly 500 times higher than the safe limit. This substance can cause kidney failure and other severe health issues. The syrup was banned, and its distribution was halted following these findings.

Owner Arrested

G. Ranganathan, the owner of Sresan Pharma, was arrested in Chennai and is under investigation for his role in the incident. Authorities are also looking into possible money laundering activities related to the company.

Regulatory Concerns

India's pharmaceutical industry, known as the "pharmacy of the world," supplies a significant portion of global medicines. However, this incident has raised concerns about the effectiveness of domestic drug testing and regulation. The World Health Organization has criticized India's regulatory practices, highlighting gaps in screening locally sold medicines.

Other Contaminated Syrups Identified

In addition to Coldrif, two other syrups—Respifresh and ReLife—manufactured by companies in Gujarat, were found to contain diethylene glycol. While no deaths have been reported from these syrups, authorities have issued warnings and recalled the products.

This incident underscores the importance of stringent quality control and regulatory oversight in the pharmaceutical industry to ensure public safety. Authorities are continuing their investigations and taking necessary actions to prevent such tragedies in the future.