Toxic Coldrif Scandal: Pharma Owner Ranganathan Arrested After Cough Syrup Kills 21 Children in MP

National news: A seven-member Madhya Pradesh police team arrested 73-year-old G. Ranganathan in Chennai. He is the owner of Sresan Pharmaceuticals, which manufactured the poisonous Coldrif cough syrup. The toxic medicine has been blamed for killing 21 children in Chhindwara. Ranganathan, a pharmacy graduate from Madras Medical College, had been in the industry for four decades. Once respected for his business success, his career has ended in disgrace. Authorities sealed his factory and locked his offices.

From Fame to Infamy

Ranganathan rose to fame in the 1980s. His nutritional syrup “Pronit” was widely promoted among doctors. Later, he expanded into nasal products and set up small factories. He was known for mentoring young entrepreneurs. But his reputation has now collapsed.

Factories and Offices Sealed

Police sealed his 2,000 sq ft unit near the Chennai-Bengaluru highway. His Kodambakkam office remains shut. Neighbors said employees cleared equipment late at night. Once a busy workplace, it is now deserted. The fall of his empire is complete.

Deadly Syrup Exposed in Lab

Tamil Nadu drug control lab tests revealed the shocking truth. Coldrif contained 48.6% diethylene glycol. This chemical is found in brake fluid and antifreeze. It causes kidney failure and death if consumed. Children who took the syrup collapsed within days.

Madhya Pradesh Government Acts Fast

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav ordered an immediate ban. All medicines made by Sresan Pharmaceuticals were outlawed. The Food and Drugs Administration began raids across the state. Inspectors were told to seize every Coldrif bottle. Legal action was also initiated.

Market Stocks Removed Quickly

Drug inspectors got strict orders. Every remaining Coldrif bottle had to be frozen and recalled. Further sales were banned instantly. Samples from other batches were collected. No trace of the toxic drug was to remain in circulation.

Tragedy Strikes Chhindwara Villages

The deaths began in late August. Children in Parasia and nearby villages were given Coldrif for cough and fever. Soon, many developed kidney failure. Most victims were under five years old. Families mourned as 21 innocent lives were lost.