Madhya Pradesh Toxic Cough Syrup Death Toll Rises to 18 as SIT Investigates

A public health crisis has unfolded in Madhya Pradesh, India, where at least 18 children have died after consuming contaminated Coldrif cough syrup containing toxic levels of diethylene glycol. The deaths primarily occurred in Chhindwara district, with multiple children suffering kidney failure and some on life support, prompting the state government to cover treatment costs and deploy medical teams. Investigations revealed two other cough syrups, ReLife and Respifresh TR, also contained dangerous levels of the chemical, leading to immediate bans and suspensions of drug officials, including the Drug Controller and several inspectors, for delayed action. A Special Investigation Team has been formed to probe the manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu and the administrative lapses that allowed the syrup to reach the market, with FIRs filed against prescribing doctors and manufacturers. The tragedy has drawn national attention, with the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights and the National Human Rights Commission demanding strict action and nationwide drug safety checks. Political opposition has accused the government of negligence and corruption, intensifying the crisis into a political controversy.