States across India are imposing bans or suspending the sale of the cough syrup Coldrif amid alarming reports linking it to child deaths in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and beyond.

The controversy began after several children in Chhindwara (MP) developed acute kidney failure and died. Authorities found that samples of Coldrif—manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceuticals, Tamil Nadu—contained diethylene glycol (DEG) in concentrations far exceeding safe limits.  In laboratory tests, the syrup was declared “Not of Standard Quality.”

In response, Madhya Pradesh immediately banned the sale of Coldrif and began seizure of existing stocks.  Tamil Nadu had already suspended its sales from October 1.  Kerala too acted as a precautionary measure, halting distribution despite the possibly affected batch not being marketed there.