Regarding the 66 deaths in Gambia allegedly due to the intake of cough syrup manufactured by Maiden Pharmaceutical Limited in Sonipat, Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij told ANI that the Centre has sent samples to the Central Drug Laboratory, Kolkata, and if any irregularities are found, it will take strict action.
“The Central Government officials are gathering the complete information. The samples will be sent to the Central Drug Lab in Kolkata. After the reports come, stern action will be taken if anything wrong is found,” Vij said. “I have talked with the Drug Controller to investigate the matter. The Health Secretary and Pharmaceuticals Secretary of the Central Government has also talked with the State Secretary of the state. It has been decided that before taking any action, the samples will be tested,” Vij further said.
Earlier, 66 children died on Wednesday allegedly after drinking the Cough Syrup manufactured by Maiden Pharmaceutical Limited in Sonipat.
WHO on Wednesday issued an alert over four India-made cough and cold syrups which Maiden Pharmaceuticals in India made. WHO has also notified that the same cough and cold syrups could be linked to the deaths of 66 children in The Gambia.
As per sources, from the preliminary enquiry, it has been made out that Maiden Pharmaceutical Limited, Sonipat, Haryana is a manufacturer licensed by the State Drug Controller for the products under reference, and holds manufacturing permission for these products. The company has manufactured and exported these products only to the Gambia so far. (ANI)
