In a shocking revelation, Madhya Pradesh Police have arrested G. Ranganathan, the owner of Chennai-based Sresan Pharmaceuticals, in connection with the deaths of at least 20 children caused by the consumption of a contaminated cough syrup branded as Coldrif. Acting on credible leads, the police apprehended Ranganathan from his residence in Kodambakkam during the early hours of Thursday morning. Preliminary investigations link the fatal incidents across several districts of Madhya Pradesh, including Ujjain, Guna, and Shivpuri, to the syrup manufactured by his firm.

Laboratory reports have confirmed that Coldrif Syrup contained diethylene glycol (DEG) — a highly toxic industrial chemical used in paints and inks. Medical experts say the ingestion of DEG can lead to acute kidney failure, a condition observed in the deceased children. Health officials have reported that over 40 other children are under close medical supervision, sparking concerns that the death toll might increase. Families of the victims alleged that the syrup was prescribed for mild cough and cold, but within days, the children developed severe renal complications.

Following the tragedy, the Madhya Pradesh government swiftly banned the sale and distribution of Coldrif Syrup across the state. The Union Health Ministry has also issued nationwide directives to suspend the sale of the product and seize any available stocks. Authorities are now expanding the investigation to identify possible lapses in the manufacturing and testing processes at Sresan Pharmaceuticals. This incident has reignited calls for stricter monitoring of pharmaceutical products and quality control standards across India.