SIT formed after 14 child deaths in MP linked to toxic cough syrup; doctor arrested, pharma company booked, and Coldrif banned statewide.

Chhindwara (Madhya Pradesh): A special investigation team (SIT) has been set up to probe the deaths of 14 children in Chhindwara, reportedly linked to the consumption of contaminated Coldrif cough syrup. The state government has also banned the syrup following lab reports confirming the presence of toxic diethylene glycol.

Dr. Praveen Soni, who allegedly prescribed the medicine even after warning signs, has been arrested and suspended. The manufacturer, Sresan Pharmaceuticals of Tamil Nadu, now faces serious charges under drug and criminal laws. Meanwhile, health officials have sealed the syrup stock and expanded testing to other medicines produced by the company.

The crisis has stirred protests: doctors are threatening a strike over Dr. Soni’s arrest, while the Opposition Congress has accused the BJP government of negligence and demanded stronger compensation for victims’ families.

Locally, parents are in panic, rushing to test their children for possible exposure. Experts warn this tragedy highlights a broader need for stricter monitoring of pharmaceuticals, especially in smaller towns where patients often rely on local clinics without questioning prescriptions. For families, the immediate advice is clear—avoid unverified syrups, keep medical bills and prescriptions, and demand clarity from authorities.