India's cough syrup scandal sparks Supreme Court outrage over child deaths

The Supreme Court has criticised the pharmaceutical industry for damaging India’s reputation due to a widespread cough syrup scandal. Contaminated medicines have led to child deaths and severe health complications in multiple regions. The issue has exposed major gaps in drug regulation and oversight. The crisis began after children in several locations fell ill or died from kidney and liver failure linked to cough syrups. Tests revealed the presence of diethylene glycol, a toxic chemical, in the medications. The contaminant had gone undetected for years, despite long-standing concerns about quality control.

In response, the union government has banned the over-the-counter sale of cough syrups, requiring a doctor’s prescription. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation has inspected 90% of around 1,300 syrup manufacturers following the scandal. However, the organisation has not publicly named companies with serious violations. The current regulatory system lacks a unified mechanism to penalise or restrict manufacturers across all states when problems arise. Experts argue that the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940 is outdated and unable to handle the vast number of modern drugs and formulations. Calls are growing for the government to mandate full transparency of drug test results under the Right to Information Act.

The scandal has highlighted the urgent need for stronger regulations and accountability. Without systemic changes, similar failures could recur. The Supreme Court’s rebuke underscores the damage to public trust and the country’s global standing.