Indian Police Arrest Pharmaceutical Owner Linked to Cough Syrup Deaths of 17 Children

Breaking News: Police Make Arrest in India Cough Syrup Deaths Police in India have arrested the owner of a pharmaceutical company linked to the deaths of at least 17 children who consumed a toxic cough syrup. Ranganathan Govindan, owner of Sresan Pharmaceuticals, was taken into custody by Madhya Pradesh state police in Chennai on Wednesday night. Timeline and Investigation The deaths occurred over the last month after children under the age of 5 allegedly consumed Coldrif cough syrup made by Sresan Pharmaceuticals. India's Health Ministry confirmed that test samples contained diethylene glycol (DEG), a highly toxic industrial solvent, on October 2. The Tamil Nadu Drugs Control Department also found that the cough syrup was manufactured in unhygienic factory conditions. Immediate Impact and Response The arrest comes as the government initiates criminal action against Sresan Pharmaceuticals. Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma Subramanian announced plans to take action against the company, while Madhya Pradesh's police chief praised the collaboration between states in investigating the case. Background Context The cough syrup was banned after the test confirmed the presence of DEG. An initial investigation revealed that aside from Madhya Pradesh, the cough syrup was also supplied to other states. The incident has raised concerns about the regulation and monitoring of pharmaceutical companies in India. What Happens Next The police will continue to investigate the case, and the government is expected to provide further updates on the action taken against Sresan Pharmaceuticals. As the investigation unfolds, families of the victims are seeking justice and accountability for the tragedy. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Dw reporting.*