New Delhi: The licence of Sresan Pharmaceuticals, manufacturer of the Cold rif cough syrup linked to the deaths of 20 children in Madhya Pradesh, is set to be permanently revoked, Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma Subramaniam confirmed on Thursday. The licence, which is currently temporarily suspended, will be cancelled in a couple of days after authorities complete further inspections and investigations.

Earlier on Thursday, the company’s owner, G. Ranganathan, 75, was arrested at his residence in Kodambakkam, Chennai, by a team from Madhya Pradesh police with local assistance. Ranganathan is expected to be taken to Chhindwara district, where the majority of the deaths occurred, after securing transit remand.

Charges and investigation

Ranganathan faces multiple charges, including:

  • Culpable homicide not amounting to murder
  • Drug adulteration
  • Violations of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act

Authorities have also planned an inspection of the Sresan Pharmaceuticals manufacturing facility in Sunguvarchatram, Kancheepuram. The 2,000 sq ft plant, located along the Chennai-Bengaluru highway, was found to have serious safety and hygiene lapses, and has now been sealed by officials.

Ranganathan’s pharmaceutical career

A pharmacy graduate from Madras Medical College, G. Ranganathan had a long career in pharmaceuticals, beginning with the popular nutritional syrup Pronit, before expanding into other liquid medicines. Despite his years in the industry, the Coldrif tragedy has drawn attention to the lack of proper quality controls at the small manufacturing facility.

Regulatory response

The Tamil Nadu Health Minister emphasised that the permanent revocation of the licence reflects the seriousness of the violations and the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health. The move comes after the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) issued directives to states to ensure strict compliance with the Drugs Rules, 1945, especially regarding testing of raw materials and finished pharmaceutical formulations.

This case has reignited concerns about quality control and regulatory oversight in the pharmaceutical sector, particularly for small-scale manufacturers producing medicines for vulnerable populations like children.

Conclusion

The permanent revocation of Sresan Pharmaceuticals’ licence and the arrest of its owner G. Ranganathan mark decisive steps in addressing the Coldrif cough syrup tragedy. Authorities have underscored their commitment to preventing further lapses, ensuring that pharmaceutical manufacturers adhere to strict safety and quality standards to protect public health.