Forensic Reports Confirm Toxic Chemical in Coldrif Syrup Linked to Child Deaths in MP
Forensic reports have definitively confirmed the presence of diethylene glycol (DEG), a highly toxic industrial solvent known to cause acute kidney failure, in the viscera samples of children who died after consuming Coldrif cough syrup in Madhya Pradesh in October 2025. This discovery effectively eliminates any alternative medical explanations for the tragic loss of lives, as stated by an officer involved in the investigation.
High Levels of Contamination Found in Seized Samples
In samples of Coldrif cough syrup seized from Tamil Nadu-based Sresan Pharmaceuticals, nearly 48% of the content was identified as diethylene glycol. Laboratory analysis of batch SR-13, which was supplied to Chhindwara district, revealed shockingly high levels of DEG contamination. These findings are set to form the backbone of a supplementary chargesheet expected to be filed soon against the 11 individuals arrested so far in connection with the case.
Tragedy Unfolds in Chhindwara and Betul Districts
The tragedy occurred between August and October of last year, when children being treated for routine symptoms such as fever and cough were prescribed Coldrif syrup at a government health facility in Chhindwara district. Within days, several of these children developed acute kidney failure and other severe complications, necessitating referral to Nagpur for advanced medical treatment.
As many as 25 children, predominantly from Chhindwara and Betul districts, lost their lives. The most recent death was reported earlier this month, involving Harsh Yaduvanshi, who had slipped into a coma on September 26 last year and succumbed at AIIMS-Nagpur just days after turning four years old.
Direct Link Established Through Toxicological Examination
An official associated with the investigation explained that a months-long toxicological examination conducted at state Forensic Science Laboratories has now established a direct link between the contaminated batch of Coldrif syrup and the deaths. While kidney failure can have multiple causes, the presence of the same dangerous chemical in samples from the factory, leftover bottles, and the bodies of the deceased children leaves no room for doubt.
The official emphasized, "There could be multiple reasons for kidney failure, but now the presence of the same dangerous chemical that was found in the samples taken from the factory as well as leftover bottles, and in the bodies of the children who died, leaves no room for doubt."
This confirmation underscores the critical role of forensic science in uncovering the truth behind such public health crises and ensuring accountability for those responsible.
