Is the MP Opposition Right in Accusing the BJP Government of 'Hiding the Truth' in Coldrif Syrup Deaths?
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Synopsis
The Coldrif syrup tragedy has led to the death of 20 children in Madhya Pradesh, raising serious concerns about the state government’s transparency. Former Minister Umang Singhar accuses the BJP administration of concealing critical facts and urges a thorough investigation. As the situation escalates, the Congress party pledges to address this pressing issue across all affected states.
Key Takeaways
- 20 children have died from the Coldrif syrup incident.
- The BJP government is accused of hiding the facts.
- Congress plans to address this issue nationally.
- Ongoing investigations aim to recover all bottles of the syrup.
- Health officials are actively tracing affected children.
Bhopal, Oct 8 (NationPress) Former Madhya Pradesh Minister and Leader of Opposition (LoP) Umang Singhar has accused the BJP-led government of Madhya Pradesh of hiding the facts related to the Coldrif syrup incident that has tragically taken the lives of 20 children, with numerous others fighting for their lives in hospitals.
The Congress leader pointed out the disturbing increase in deaths, a tally that state deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla has confirmed is now at 20, stressing that the situation in Parasia, located in Chhindwara district, is dire.
"This case appears to be shrouded in mystery, and it seems the government is concealing the truth. The situation is critical as children continue to perish daily," Singhar stated at a press conference in Bhopal.
He challenged the Mohan Yadav-led administration's commitment to locating all children who may have ingested the toxic syrup, not just in Chhindwara and Betul, but also in neighboring states such as Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh.
"The central leadership of Congress has resolved to address this issue vigorously in all the states affected by the consumption of the poisonous cough syrup. Therefore, I was directed to inform the press about this crucial matter at the party headquarters here," Singhar explained.
Singhar also conducted a joint press conference on this topic at the Congress headquarters in New Delhi on Tuesday.
The Leader of Opposition criticized Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and Deputy CM Rajendra Shukla, who oversees the health portfolio, for permitting the Tamil Nadu-based firm to sell the cough syrup in Madhya Pradesh.
"The government should clarify whether the same cough syrup was distributed in other regions of Madhya Pradesh. Is the government tracking children like during the Covid period? Instead of implementing effective measures to prevent this tragedy, the BJP government is merely offering a whitewash with Rs 4 lakh compensation," Singhar asserted.
He also directed sharp criticism at the chief minister, questioning, "Is Mohan Yadav a weak chief minister who cannot act against Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla?"
According to Rajendra Shukla, at least seven children remain hospitalized in various facilities across Nagpur, Maharashtra, as he visited the city on Tuesday to assess the situation.
Shukla confirmed that the cough syrup linked to the fatalities was produced by a company in Tamil Nadu.
He noted that action has been initiated for negligence against the company's owner, the prescribing doctor, and the involved FDA officials.
Approximately 600 bottles of the cough syrup were discovered in Chhindwara, with 443 already recovered.
Shukla also mentioned that Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) and Anganwadi workers have been instructed to conduct house-to-house visits to locate any remaining bottles, ensuring none are still in circulation.
Point of View
It’s imperative to approach this tragic event with a commitment to uncovering the truth. The rising death toll among children due to a reportedly toxic cough syrup cannot be overlooked. It’s crucial for the government to provide transparency and accountability in this matter, ensuring that justice prevails for the affected families.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Coldrif syrup incident about?
The Coldrif syrup incident involves the tragic deaths of 20 children in Madhya Pradesh due to consumption of a toxic cough syrup, leading to severe health complications for many others.
Who is responsible for the Coldrif syrup sales?
The Madhya Pradesh government, specifically Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and Deputy CM Rajendra Shukla, are under scrutiny for allowing the Tamil Nadu-based company to sell the cough syrup in the state.
What actions are being taken regarding the incident?
Authorities have initiated action against the company’s owner, the prescribing doctor, and FDA officials for negligence while also conducting investigations to recover remaining syrup bottles.
What is Congress's stance on the issue?
Congress's central leadership has vowed to raise this issue across states where children have suffered due to the syrup, emphasizing the need for accountability from the government.
How many children are still hospitalized?
At least seven children remain hospitalized in Nagpur, Maharashtra, as a result of complications from the Coldrif syrup.
