Tamil Nadu: S Ranganathan, the owner of Sresan Pharmaceuticals, was arrested late on Wednesday in Chennai in connection with the child deaths linked to a cough syrup in Madhya Pradesh, officials said.
The arrest comes after several fatalities were reported following the consumption of ‘Coldrif’, a cough syrup manufactured by Sresan Pharma. The syrup is under investigation for its alleged role in multiple child deaths, prompting a nationwide probe into the company’s operations.
Arrest and police action
A team from Madhya Pradesh Police was dispatched to Chennai and Kanchipuram to secure Ranganathan’s arrest. He was taken into custody in the Ashok Nagar area of Chennai, following which he is expected to be brought to the company’s Kanchipuram factory for further investigation.
The arrest is linked to a case registered under Sections 105 and 276 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the 27A Act, which deals with the production and distribution of spurious or harmful drugs.
Background on Sresan Pharmaceuticals
Sresan Pharmaceuticals has been in the spotlight after its product ‘Coldrif’ was reportedly consumed by children who later died due to severe reactions. Authorities are probing whether the syrup contained toxic substances or was improperly manufactured, leading to fatal consequences.
Investigation details
Sources indicate that police teams will conduct thorough inspections of the Kanchipuram manufacturing facility, collect samples of the syrup, and interview staff. Investigators are also expected to trace the distribution network to ensure no other batches of the product remain in circulation.
The arrest is part of a broader crackdown on unsafe medicines in India, highlighting the government’s increasing scrutiny over pharmaceutical companies responsible for child-related health risks.
Public and legal response
The Madhya Pradesh Police have assured the public of swift legal action against those found responsible. Legal experts note that under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Drugs and Cosmetics Act, the company owner could face severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines, if negligence or wrongdoing is proven.
Health authorities have also issued advisories urging parents to avoid using cough syrups from unverified manufacturers and report any adverse effects immediately.