Parasia, Oct 10: In a major breakthrough in the investigation into the deaths of several children in Madhya Pradesh due to toxic cough syrup, police have arrested Ranganathan Govindan, owner of Tamil Nadu-based Srisan Pharmaceuticals. He has been remanded to 10 days of police custody for interrogation.
Govindan is accused of manufacturing and distributing the adulterated cough syrup ‘Coldrif’, which led to multiple child deaths in Chhindwara, Parasia, Jabalpur, and Betul districts. He had been absconding with his wife since the tragedy and was captured in Chennai after a coordinated operation by a 12-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed by Chhindwara police. Six members of the team travelled to Tamil Nadu to carry out the arrest. A reward of Rs 20,000 had been announced for information leading to his capture.
Following his arrest, Govindan was brought to Parasia for further questioning. Reports said a mob gathered outside the court on Friday, attempting to attack him and demanding capital punishment, though police escorted him to safety.
Authorities suspect that Govindan was planning to flee abroad, as his children reportedly live overseas. Forensic teams are currently gathering evidence, and post-mortem examinations of three deceased children have been completed.
In a rare move, the local legal fraternity has collectively refused to defend Govindan. “All lawyers have decided that no one will defend this murderer,” said a local advocate in a video statement, leaving him without legal representation in court.
The incident has sparked national outrage and renewed scrutiny over pharmaceutical regulation and drug safety standards. Although a PIL seeking a CBI probe was dismissed by the Supreme Court, legal experts have urged the apex court to reconsider. The investigation into Srisan Pharmaceuticals’ operations is ongoing as families continue to seek justice.
