Rajasthan suspended Drug Controller Rajaram Sharma after two children died from poor-quality cough syrups. The government halted the distribution of 19 medicines supplied by Kayson Pharma, which linked to the tragedy. Authorities distributed these medicines under the Chief Minister’s Free Medicine Scheme. The Health Department reported quality control failures and accused Sharma of interfering in setting medicine standards. Since 2012, officials tested 10,119 samples from Kayson Pharma and found 42 substandard. Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma ordered a thorough investigation and formed a committee to review the quality assurance failures.
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Drug Suspension and Medicine Ban
Rajasthan banned cough syrups containing dextromethorphan after multiple batches failed tests. The government advised against giving these medicines to children under two, following central guidelines. Mandatory warning labels for children and pregnant women will now be required. Authorities plan to regulate drugs for respiratory illnesses like COPD and suggest safer alternatives for cough treatment. These steps aim to protect children and improve medicine safety statewide. The Health Department is closely monitoring compliance with the new rules.
Tamil Nadu banned the cough syrup ‘Coldrif’ after reports linked it to 11 child deaths in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. The syrup is produced by a Chennai-based company supplying multiple states. Authorities inspected the manufacturer’s plant in Kancheepuram and collected samples for testing. Initial findings suggest possible contamination with diethylene glycol, a toxic chemical causing kidney failure. Production is suspended until test results arrive. The state ordered immediate removal of all stocks to protect public health.
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Political Response and Investigation
The Union Health Ministry warned all states against prescribing cough medicines to children under two. This advisory followed deaths of nine children in Madhya Pradesh and two in Rajasthan linked to contaminated syrups. The ministry urged states to strengthen drug monitoring and ensure safer prescription practices. Samples are under analysis in state and central labs. The government is increasing oversight of pharmaceutical companies to prevent such tragedies and protect infants nationwide.
Senior Congress leader Kamal Nath alleged contamination with industrial brake oil solvents in the medicines. He demanded a strict investigation and action against those responsible. The Rajasthan government promised transparency and legal action. Authorities intensified inspections of drug supply chains across states to prevent future incidents. Lab results are expected soon to guide further steps. These measures aim to restore public trust and secure the quality of essential medicines.
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