Why is Cong Targeting Dy CM Over Health Crisis in MP's Chhindwara?
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Synopsis
In a fierce critique, the Congress party in Madhya Pradesh has called out Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla for allegedly downplaying the role of Coldrif cough syrup in the tragic deaths of 16 children in Chhindwara. With demands for accountability and a thorough investigation mounting, this health crisis has raised serious questions about governance and public safety.
Key Takeaways
- Congress party criticizes Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla.
- Coldrif cough syrup linked to the deaths of 16 children.
- Demands for an independent investigation into health services.
- Suspension of a doctor deemed inadequate for justice.
- Calls for accountability among health officials.
Chhindwara, Oct 6 (NationPress) The Congress party in Madhya Pradesh has vehemently criticized Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla, accusing him of exonerating Coldrif cough syrup, which is linked to the deaths of 16 children in the Chhindwara district over the past 40 days.
Led by State Congress President Jitu Patwari and Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar, the party questioned Shukla's previous declaration that the cough syrup was not implicated in the children's fatalities.
Shukla, who oversees the Health and Medical Education departments, made this assertion on October 1.
“Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla, who also serves as Health Minister, must explain why a cough syrup that has been banned in Madhya Pradesh was still available for sale, and how he could clear Coldrif of wrongdoing before a thorough investigation was conducted,” asked LoP Singhar.
The Congress has called for Shukla's removal from his ministerial role and demanded an independent inquiry to uncover the root causes of the escalating health crisis in Madhya Pradesh.
“Merely suspending a doctor is not sufficient justice. Health Minister Rajendra Shukla, Health Secretary, and other senior health officials must be held accountable for this tragic incident. We expect decisive actions from Chief Minister Mohan Yadav during his upcoming visit to Chhindwara; otherwise, it will merely cover up the crime,” Patwari stated during his Monday visit.
Just hours before Chief Minister Mohan Yadav arrived in Chhindwara, Patwari also questioned why post-mortems of the victims (children) had not been conducted.
The State Congress President alleged that the post-mortem of one victim was only carried out on Sunday after the matter gained media attention.
As per official reports, the district administration imposed a ban on the sale of Coldrif cough syrup on September 30 after the death toll rose to 10.
Additionally, another cough syrup, Nextro DS, was banned, as it had been consumed by two children. During the initial investigation, it was noted that 80 percent of the infected children had used one cough syrup, while the rest had used another.
Meanwhile, a doctor named Praveen Soni, who had prescribed Coldrif to most of the victims, was arrested.
An FIR was filed early Sunday morning at the Parasia police station against the promoters of Sresan Pharmaceuticals, the Tamil Nadu-based manufacturer of Coldrif, along with Praveen Soni.
Point of View
The recent health crisis in Chhindwara raises alarm about the state of public health governance. The Congress party's demands for accountability reflect a broader concern about transparency and the responsibility of health officials. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial for authorities to act decisively to restore public trust and ensure the safety of citizens.
NationPress
06/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main issue discussed in this article?
The article discusses the criticism of Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla by the Congress party regarding his handling of the health crisis linked to Coldrif cough syrup, which allegedly caused the deaths of 16 children.
What has the Congress party demanded?
The Congress party has demanded the removal of Rajendra Shukla from his ministerial position and an independent inquiry into the health crisis.
What action has been taken against the cough syrup?
The district administration banned the sale of Coldrif cough syrup on September 30 after the death toll rose, and another syrup, Nextro DS, was also banned.
Who was arrested in connection with this case?
A doctor named Praveen Soni, who prescribed Coldrif to many of the victims, was arrested in connection with the case.
What are the concerns raised about the post-mortem examinations?
Concerns were raised about the delay in conducting post-mortems on the deceased children, with claims that one was done only after media scrutiny.
