ED Raids Chennai in Coldrif Syrup Probe
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday carried out searches at seven locations in Chennai connected to Sresan Pharma, the manufacturer of the Coldrif cough syrup. The action is part of a money-laundering probe under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Background: Child Deaths After Syrup Use
The Coldrif cough syrup has been linked to the deaths of children in Madhya Pradesh after lab tests revealed dangerously high levels of diethylene glycol (DEG), a toxic industrial solvent. Following this, the Health Ministry declared the syrup toxic and imposed a ban. Two other syrups—Respifresh TR and ReLife, made in Gujarat—were also found to contain DEG, though no fatalities have been reported from their use so far.
Targets of the Searches
The ED’s operations included searches at the residences of Tamil Nadu Drug Control department officials and at the premises of Sresan Pharma. Investigators are examining financial documents and possible irregular money transactions.
Legal Action & Investigation
Madhya Pradesh police have registered an FIR against Sresan Pharma, directly blaming the company for the children’s deaths. Its owner, G. Ranganathan, was arrested earlier this month. Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu government has suspended officials of the state drug control body over lapses, and the company’s Kanchipuram plant has been sealed. Forensic inspections are continuing.
Wider Concerns
The tragedy has highlighted serious gaps in India’s drug regulation system. The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that contaminated syrups from unregulated sources could spread beyond India, raising global safety concerns.
