Doctor arrested in cough syrup scandal after 14 children die in Madhya Pradesh

The local administration has also stopped the sale of another cough syrup called Nextro-DS as a precautionary measure. The investigation report is still pending.

Chhindwara: The number of children who died from cough syrup in Madhya Pradesh has now reached 14. The investigation into this incident has revealed a significant revelation. An FIR was filed at the Parasia police station on Saturday against Dr Praveen Soni and the operators of Sresun Pharmaceutical, the company that manufactures Coldrif syrup. Late last night, police arrested Dr Praveen Soni. The government has also banned the sale of the syrup.

Dr Praveen Soni Arrested

Since 7 September, 10 children have died in the Parasia subdivision, a total of 14 across the district. Dr Praveen Soni prescribed Coldrif cough syrup to most of the children. Ankit Sahlam, BMO of the Parasia CHC, filed a complaint against the doctor at the police station. Police have registered a case under various sections of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.

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Shocking Revelation in Investigation Report

A lab test report from the Tamil Nadu Drugs Control Department found that Coldrif syrup contained 46.2% diethylene glycol (DEG). This toxic chemical is commonly used in anti-freeze and brake fluid and causes severe kidney damage. This is what caused the children's deaths. Following this, the Madhya Pradesh government immediately banned the sale of this syrup.

Investigation Into Nextro-DS Syrup Continues

The local administration has also stopped the sale of another cough syrup called Nextro-DS as a precautionary measure. The investigation report is still pending. The Union Health Ministry has launched a thorough investigation of pharmaceutical manufacturing units in six states.

How Did Children Die?

In September, children in Parasia and surrounding areas were given cough syrup to treat colds and coughs. Subsequently, they developed symptoms such as fever, vomiting, and urinary retention. Initially, six children died, which has since risen to 14. Biopsies and lab tests confirmed the presence of the toxic chemical.

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Administration Action and Investigation

Dr Praveen Soni has been suspended and transferred to the regional office in Jabalpur. Police are conducting extensive interrogations. The company's supply chain and owners are also being targeted. The Union Health Ministry has issued a strict warning regarding all cough syrups for children under five years of age.

This cough syrup scandal is a serious case that has claimed the lives of children. The government and administration have taken prompt action and intensified the investigation. Efforts are underway at all levels to ensure the strictest possible punishment for the perpetrators to prevent such tragedies in the future.