Bhopal: Addressing reporters at the Madhya Pradesh Congress Committee office today, Madhya Pradesh Congress Committee President Jitu Patwari leveled serious allegations of criminal negligence on the part of the state government regarding the deaths of innocent children in Chhindwara due to consumption of the fake and toxic cough syrup “Coldrif.” He said that this incident not only symbolizes the failure of the health department, but is also a living proof of the corruption prevalent in the entire system.
Patwari stated that 16 innocent children had died yesterday, and another child died today. A total of 17 children have died, while many are still fighting for their lives on ventilators. He questioned that Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav met with the families of the deceased yesterday, but what concrete steps were taken for the children on ventilators? Were any effective measures taken to save their lives? The Congress President sharply criticized the government’s decision to remove the Collector. He said, “What is the benefit of removing the Collector? If the same Collector had been present, he would have brought the situation under control quickly. This removal is merely a conspiracy to divert attention from the incident.”
Patwari demanded the resignation of Health Minister Rajendra Shukla and asked, “Why isn’t the Health Minister’s resignation being accepted? Does the government want to protect him? Rajendra Shukla dreams of becoming Chief Minister, so the Chief Minister is stopping him. But action is being taken against Health Department officials.”
Expressing concern over the danger of counterfeit medicines, he said, “Children dying from fake medicines were only seen in movies, but now it’s a reality. Previously, children died from medicines from this same company (Sressan Pharmaceuticals), yet their sales continued in Madhya Pradesh. This proves that food controllers receive a 50 percent commission, and no medicine is approved without commission. The PS of the Health Department is not being removed because he is a Yadav. This government is like a crocodile—calm on the outside, but dangerous on the inside. There isn’t a single honest minister left in the Mohan government’s cabinet.”
The Patwari clarified that these deaths were the result of corruption. Rajendra Shukla has not yet arrived at the scene, the Minister in charge has not arrived, and the Health PS has not yet arrived. He said, “The system has taken the lives of 25 children. Such incidents occur due to corruption.”
“Congress demands:
Immediate action and suspension of all responsible officials, including Health Minister Rajendra Shukla, the Health Commissioner, and the Drug Controller.
Strict measures to prevent the sale of counterfeit drugs, including investigations of all pharmaceutical companies and a ban on commissions.
Compensation and free treatment for affected families.
Suggestions are being sent to the Chief Minister to ensure such incidents do not recur.
The Congress president announced that on October 9th, simultaneous candlelight vigils will be held at every block and district level across the state to pay tribute to the deceased. He said, “The BJP government’s ‘negligent character’ is a crime! It is increasing the distress of the victims’ families. Those who endanger innocent people through criminal negligence have no right to remain in power!” The Congress party will continue its agitation on this issue and make every effort to ensure that the culprits are punished.
