Chhindwara/Bhopal, October 5 (Udaipur Kiran News): In a major development following the death of 11 children allegedly due to a toxic cough syrup in Parasia area of Chhindwara district, authorities have arrested Dr. Praveen Soni, the doctor who prescribed the medicine. Police have also registered an FIR against Shrezen Pharmaceutical Company, based in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, which manufactured the syrup.
The FIR was filed late Saturday night at Parasia Police Station based on a complaint by BMO Dr. Ankit Sallam from the Health Department. Acting swiftly, a special police team formed by the Superintendent of Police arrested Dr. Soni from Rajpal Chowk under the Kotwali police station limits.
Laboratory reports received from Tamil Nadu confirmed the presence of high levels of Diethylene Glycol in Coldrif cough syrup, making it adulterated and unsafe. Based on this report, police registered the case under BNS Section 276 (adulteration of drugs), BNS Section 105(3) (culpable homicide), and Sections 27(A)(iii) and 26 of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, which carry penalties of up to life imprisonment.
Dr. Sallam stated that the investigation is being treated with utmost seriousness. The syrup samples used in the children’s treatment tested adulterated, leading to the FIR. He added that scientific and medical inquiries are underway to determine accountability. The department has also appealed to parents not to administer cough syrups without medical advice.
So far, 11 children aged between 1 and 5 years have died due to kidney failure, while several others remain under treatment. All affected children had been treated at Dr. Soni’s clinic for cold, cough, and fever, where Coldrif syrup was prescribed. While initial symptoms subsided, the children developed urine retention within two days, leading to fatal complications.
Authorities allege that the syrup, not recommended for children under 4 years, was irresponsibly prescribed.
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav expressed grief over the deaths and announced a financial assistance of ₹4 lakh each for the victims’ families.
The Health Department and Police continue to investigate both the doctor and the pharmaceutical company, with more action expected as further evidence emerges.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
