Sresan Pharma owner detained over Coldrif cough syrup deaths in Madhya Pradesh

The owner of Sresan Pharmaceuticals, the Tamil Nadu–based company behind the controversial “Coldrif” cough syrup, has been detained by Madhya Pradesh police in connection with the deaths of over 20 children allegedly caused by the tainted medicine.

Ranganathan, the proprietor of the firm, was taken into custody late in Chennai after police from Madhya Pradesh carried out the operation.

The detention follows mounting public outcry and investigations pointing to diethylene glycol (DEG) contamination in the syrup batches, a toxic substance known to cause kidney, neurological, and systemic damage when ingested.

Earlier inspections at the Sresan facility triggered suspicions: regulators reportedly found unbilled containers of DEG at the manufacturing site and alleged that the company was blending 46–48 % DEG into the syrup — vastly exceeding the permissible limit of 0.1 %.

The Tamil Nadu Drugs Control Authority had already frozen the company’s stocks and suspended its license while serving a show-cause notice over safety and standards violations.

In response to the fatalities, multiple states have banned the distribution and use of the affected syrup batches. Meanwhile, samples from other pharmaceutical units are also being scrutinized for compliance lapses.

Authorities have registered a criminal case against the manufacturer, citing possible charges including manslaughter and adulteration under the Drugs & Cosmetics Act.

A Special Investigation Team from Madhya Pradesh has traveled to Tamil Nadu to assist with evidence collection and inspections.

Health and political leaders have condemned the tragedy. Madhya Pradesh’s Health Minister has pledged strict action, warning that no guilty party will be spared.

The incident has raised urgent questions about quality control, regulatory oversight, and accountability in India’s pharmaceutical sector — especially for pediatric formulations.