Why Did TN Revoke Sresan Pharmaceuticals' License Over Toxic Cough Syrup Tragedy?
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Synopsis
The Tamil Nadu government has made a bold move by permanently revoking the manufacturing license of Sresan Pharmaceuticals over a toxic cough syrup scandal that has shocked the nation. With safety protocols under scrutiny, this incident raises critical questions about drug regulation in India.
Key Takeaways
- Tamil Nadu government takes strict action against Sresan Pharmaceuticals.
- Cold rif syrup contained lethal levels of diethylene glycol (DEG).
- Over 20 child fatalities linked to the syrup have sparked nationwide outrage.
- Inspection of drug manufacturing units across Tamil Nadu is being intensified.
- Calls for significant reforms in drug regulation are growing stronger.
Chennai, Oct 13 (NationPress) The Tamil Nadu government has permanently revoked the manufacturing license of Sresan Pharmaceuticals, the firm responsible for the adulterated cough syrup Coldrif, and mandated its complete shutdown after it was discovered that the product contained dangerously high levels of toxic chemicals.
In an official statement, the Tamil Nadu government declared: "The drug manufacturing license of Sresan Pharmaceuticals has been entirely canceled, and the company has been ordered to cease operations. Furthermore, directives have been issued for a comprehensive inspection of all drug manufacturing facilities throughout Tamil Nadu to guarantee adherence to safety and quality standards."
Officials noted that the Health Department will enhance monitoring protocols and implement stricter penalties for pharmaceutical companies that breach public health regulations.
During an inspection of the company's Kancheepuram facility, the state Drug Control Department discovered that Coldrif syrup contained 48.6 percent diethylene glycol (DEG)—a hazardous industrial solvent typically used in antifreeze—instead of the approved pharmaceutical components.
Consumption of this syrup has been associated with the deaths of over 20 children in Madhya Pradesh’s Chhindwara district, sparking public outrage and nationwide scrutiny.
Authorities mentioned that the company had committed over 300 serious violations, including the lack of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Good Laboratory Practices (GLP).
Investigators also found that the firm utilized non-pharma-grade solvents, neglected mandatory testing protocols, and falsified production records.
The owner of Sresan Pharmaceuticals, G. Ranganathan, was apprehended last week by a special investigation team from Madhya Pradesh looking into the child fatalities. His arrest was preceded by several raids and evidence collection across Tamil Nadu and Madhya Pradesh.
Earlier on Monday, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) executed simultaneous searches at seven locations in Chennai, including the company’s headquarters and the residences of senior officials from the Tamil Nadu Drug Control Office.
These raids were part of a probe under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) aimed at uncovering potential financial irregularities and fund diversions.
This tragedy has reignited calls for comprehensive reforms in drug regulation and oversight, as public health experts advocate for enhanced inter-state coordination to prevent similar preventable fatalities.
Point of View
It's imperative to acknowledge the gravity of the situation surrounding Sresan Pharmaceuticals. This incident highlights severe lapses in drug safety standards and calls for immediate reforms in pharmaceutical regulations to protect public health. The nation must prioritize accountability and transparency in drug manufacturing to prevent future tragedies.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the revocation of Sresan Pharmaceuticals' license?
The Tamil Nadu government revoked the license due to the discovery of dangerously high levels of toxic chemicals in their cough syrup, Coldrif, which has been linked to the deaths of over 20 children.
What actions are being taken against Sresan Pharmaceuticals?
The company has been completely shut down, and a thorough inspection of drug manufacturing units across Tamil Nadu is underway to ensure adherence to safety standards.
What are the implications of this incident for drug regulation in India?
This tragedy raises urgent questions about drug safety regulations in India, highlighting the need for comprehensive reforms and stricter oversight to prevent future incidents.
