India, Oct. 8 -- Contaminated cough syrup has claimed the lives of around 20 children in Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla on Tuesday said that 20 children have died after consuming a contaminated cough syrup, while five others are currently undergoing treatment for kidney failure. Among the victims, 17 were from Chhindwara district, two from Betul, and one from Pandhurna.

The children had reportedly been suffering from fever and cold before taking the syrup, branded 'Coldrif', which led to symptoms such as vomiting and difficulty in urination. The first death was recorded on September 2. The syrup was manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceuticals, located in Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu.

Investigations by drug c...