Bhopal/Nagpur, October 9, 2025:
The cough syrup tragedy in Madhya Pradesh has taken a grimmer turn, spreading beyond Chhindwara district and claiming *three more lives in Betul and Pandhurna. The total death toll has now climbed to *21, with another child succumbing in Chhindwara.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav admitted to administrative lapses in handling the crisis, expressing sorrow over the incident. “Chook se dukh hota hai,” he said, acknowledging the government’s responsibility.
18 Deaths in Chhindwara, Children Critical in Nagpur
According to official sources, *18 deaths have been reported from Chhindwara, while *five children remain in critical condition at hospitals in Nagpur. All the deceased reportedly consumed the *‘Coldrif’ cough syrup, which was found to contain *48.6% diethylene glycol (DEG) — a highly toxic industrial chemical known to cause renal failure.
Preliminary medical reports indicate that the children died from acute kidney failure after ingesting the contaminated syrup. The State Health Department has launched a thorough investigation into the cause and source of the contamination.
CM Mohan Yadav Admits Gaps, Calls for Accountability
Speaking to reporters in Bhopal, CM Mohan Yadav stressed the need for better coordination among field officials to prevent such tragedies. “This incident is deeply painful. We all share collective responsibility,” he said.
Yadav further stated, “I welcome constructive criticism — from the opposition, media, or anyone else — so that the system can function effectively and transparently.”
SIT Expands Probe, Pharma Owner on the Run
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has intensified its probe and conducted search operations at Sresan Pharmaceuticals’ manufacturing units in *Chennai and Kancheepuram. The company is responsible for producing the *toxic Coldrif syrup.
Authorities revealed that the owner of Sresan Pharma has been absconding since October 4, and even his family members are currently untraceable. Officials are coordinating with local police and central agencies to locate and detain those responsible.
A Ray of Hope: One-Year-Old Survives
Amid the tragedy, there was a glimmer of hope when *one-year-old Pratik Pawar, who was undergoing treatment in Nagpur, **recovered from kidney failure and encephalopathy. Unlike the other victims, Pratik had consumed *a different brand of cough syrup, and his recovery brought a moment of relief to doctors and the grieving community.
What Is Diethylene Glycol (DEG)?
Diethylene glycol is an industrial solvent commonly used in antifreeze and brake fluid. When mistakenly or illegally used in pharmaceuticals, even in small quantities, it can lead to severe kidney damage, neurological issues, and death, particularly in children.
Central Health Authorities on Alert
Following the incident, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has directed all states and union territories to tighten quality control and ensure no batch of medicine reaches the market without comprehensive testing.
Drug inspectors across India have been asked to *collect random samples, verify **manufacturing licenses, and ensure compliance with the *Drugs and Cosmetics Act.
Key Takeaways
- 21 children have died in the Coldrif cough syrup tragedy across Madhya Pradesh.
- The toxic syrup contained 48.6% diethylene glycol, an industrial chemical.
- SIT raided Sresan Pharma units in Tamil Nadu; the company owner remains absconding.
- CM Mohan Yadav admitted lapses and stressed collective accountability.
- The DGHS has ordered nationwide testing of all pediatric syrups.