A significant controversy has emerged in Madhya Pradesh’s Chhindwara district following the deaths of six children due to kidney failure. Initial reports suggest a link between the deaths and the consumption of cough syrup. Health Minister and Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla addressed the situation, stating that the definitive cause of the fatalities would be determined after the investigation report is finalized. The health department is actively monitoring the situation and ensuring control.
Minister Shukla confirmed that the children’s medical reports have been submitted to ICMR and Nagpur for analysis. He emphasized that the precise reason for the deaths will be revealed upon receiving the report. He also urged the public to disregard any circulating rumors.
Deputy CM Shukla defended that cough syrup is not to blame for the deaths. He dismissed the claims against the syrup as unfounded. He definitively stated that cough syrup was not the cause of the deaths. He underscored that a conclusion cannot be reached until the investigation report is available.
The Congress party has raised concerns about the pre-emptive exoneration of the syrup company by the Deputy CM, even before the investigative findings were released. Congress legislator Arif Masood questioned the basis for providing a clean chit to the pharmaceutical company before the investigation’s conclusion. He insinuated potential corruption within the handling of the case.
Furthermore, Congress leader Masood noted the immediate removal of the collector who had previously banned the cough syrup. He accused the BJP government of taking action against individuals attempting to curb corruption. He requested that Chief Minister Mohan Yadav personally review the case.
BJP spokesperson Dr. Hiteshwajpayee countered the Congress’s allegations, highlighting the Congress’s tendency to make accusations while emphasizing the BJP’s focus on governance. Vajpayee clarified that Deputy CM Shukla’s statement was intended to convey the need for caution and to avoid premature conclusions before the investigation’s completion.
The situation originated in the areas of Parasya, Umreth, Jatachhapar, Badkui, and surrounding areas, where children were suffering from colds, coughs, and fevers. Families administered cough syrup obtained from local medical practitioners and pharmacies. Reports indicate that the children experienced cessation of urine flow within a few days, causing considerable distress to the families. As the condition worsened, children were admitted to hospitals in Parasya and Chhindwara, and several were subsequently transferred to Nagpur. Six children have tragically died during treatment.