DGHS orders strict testing after cough syrup tragedy claims 20 children

India’s health regulator has issued an urgent directive to all states and Union Territories after the tragic deaths of 20 children linked to contaminated Coldrif cough syrup. The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has called for stricter quality testing of all pharmaceutical products and immediate compliance with drug safety rules.

Rising Toll and Shocking Findings

Four new deaths were reported in Madhya Pradesh in the last 24 hours, bringing the total to 20. Six other children remain critical. Investigations revealed diethylene glycol (DEG), a toxic chemical was found in Coldrif syrup at 500 times the permissible limit. Some syrups were sold despite being unsafe for children under four years of age.

Regulatory Crackdown

The DGHS cited Rules 74(c) and 78(c)(ii) of the Drugs Rules, mandating batch-wise testing of raw materials and finished products. Manufacturers must also maintain testing records and source ingredients only from approved vendors.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed, and a case filed against the Tamil Nadu-based manufacturer. Dr Praveen Soni, a Chhindwara paediatrician, was arrested, though the Indian Medical Association defended him, blaming systemic lapses.

Government Action

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav suspended multiple drug officials for negligence. The Health Ministry has begun risk-based inspections across six states. States like Rajasthan, UP, and Maharashtra have launched independent probes, seized products, and restricted unsafe batches.

The Final Word

As investigations continue, the tragedy underscores a grim reality: weak quality checks can turn life-saving drugs into deadly poisons. The DGHS insists: strict vigilance is the only cure.