By News Karnataka Editorial Team
Copyright newskarnataka
Cough syrup linked to child deaths in Rajasthan
The Rajasthan government has banned 22 batches of a generic cough syrup after it was linked to the deaths of two children and illnesses in others over the past two weeks, officials said on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. The syrup, distributed through government health centres, has raised concerns over safety and contamination.
The matter came to light after a five-year-old boy, Nitish Sharma, from Sikar district, died hours after being administered the medicine at Chirana community health centre on September 29. While the child’s parents did not lodge a complaint or seek a post-mortem, his maternal grandfather filed a formal complaint with the authorities.
An earlier incident on September 22 in Bharatpur involved the death of two-year-old Samrat Jatav after consuming the same syrup prescribed at a local health centre. Samrat’s grandmother, Nehni Jatav, stated that three of her grandchildren took the syrup; two recovered after vomiting, but Samrat did not survive.
Expert warnings and alarming incidents
Drug Controller Ajay Phatak informed reporters that complaints were received about children falling ill after taking the cough syrup. “Our drug inspector has collected samples from Sikar, Jhunjhunu, and Bharatpur. Test reports are expected within three days. The syrup should not be administered to children below five years of age,” he said.
A particularly alarming incident involved Dr Tarachand Yogi, in-charge of Bayana community health centre, who reportedly consumed the syrup on September 24 in front of parents to demonstrate its safety. Eight hours later, he was found unconscious in his car, raising serious safety concerns.
Additionally, eight other children aged between one and five years reportedly fell ill in Banswara district after taking the syrup last week.
Government response and measures
In response to the deaths and reports of illness, the Rajasthan government has banned all 22 batches of the cough syrup and ordered the immediate recall of existing stock. Jai Singh, executive director for quality control at Rajasthan Medical Services Corporation Limited, said, “Doctors have been asked to stop prescribing the syrup. Samples from all 22 batches are being tested, and supplies from Kayson Pharma have been halted.”
Over 1.33 lakh bottles of the syrup were distributed across the state since July, and approximately 8,200 bottles remain in stock at Jaipur’s Sawai Man Singh Hospital, which authorities have instructed not to be given to patients.
The Rajasthan health department has also ordered an inquiry to investigate the cause of deaths and ensure accountability. Authorities have urged parents and caregivers to remain vigilant and report any adverse effects after administering medicines to children.
The recent incidents highlight the critical importance of drug safety and monitoring, especially for medicines administered to young children. With the government recalling the syrup and initiating an inquiry, the focus remains on preventing further tragedies and ensuring stricter quality control of pharmaceuticals distributed through public health channels.
