Killer cough syrups, zero accountability: Investigating three pharma companies

When the news of over 22 child deaths due to contaminated cough syrups came out of Madhya Pradesh in October 2025, there was shock and frustration. This was not the first time Indian syrups had killed kids. But this time we decided, it’s time to remember.

In a joint investigation, The News Minute and Newslaundry examined three Indian pharmaceutical companies linked to the deaths of children in India, The Gambia, and Uzbekistan. The companies – Digital Vision, Maiden Pharma or Marion Biotech – have faced no consequences in India. Their businesses remain unaffected.

The investigation traces a pattern of toxic medicines, delayed accountability, legal loopholes, and regulatory failures, raising critical questions about India’s drug manufacturing and enforcement systems.

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