Tag Archives: responsibility

Tamil Nadu cancels licence of Sresan Pharmaceuticals, shuts down company

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The Tamil Nadu state health department has confirmed the shutdown of Sresan Pharmaceuticals following an investigation that revealed the presence of toxic contaminants, specifically Diethylene Glycol (DEG), in their product Coldrif syrup. This development comes after multiple deaths have been linked to the consumption of the adulterated medicine.

In response to the findings, the health department has ordered comprehensive inspections across all pharmaceutical manufacturing units throughout Tamil Nadu. Large-scale inspections are currently underway to ensure compliance with safety standards, ANI reported.

On October 9, the owner of Sresan Pharmaceuticals, Ranganathan, was arrested in Chennai by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) from Madhya Pradesh. He has been remanded in 10-day police custody by a Parasia court. Additionally, two senior drug inspectors have been suspended due to dereliction of duty, as reported by ANI.

The Tamil Nadu government has reiterated its directive for thorough inspections of all pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities in the state to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader K Annamalai criticized the Tamil Nadu government’s handling of the crisis. He highlighted that despite the deaths of 23 people in Madhya Pradesh and three children in Rajasthan linked to the toxic Coldrif syrup, only two drug inspectors had been suspended. Annamalai accused the state government of attempting to shirk responsibility.

“A drug manufactured by a private pharmaceutical company in Kanchipuram has reportedly caused multiple deaths, yet the Tamil Nadu government is trying to create an illusion of having no connection or accountability,” he said. He also underscored the company’s history of quality violations and the apparent lack of proper inspections by state drug authorities.

Meanwhile, the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has issued a directive to all states and Union Territories to ensure strict compliance with the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945. This includes mandatory testing of raw materials and finished pharmaceutical products before approval.

Earlier, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches at seven locations in Chennai linked to the Sresan Pharmaceuticals case, addressing money laundering charges connected to the Coldrif syrup deaths. Multiple ED teams from the Chennai Zonal Office carried out simultaneous raids based on specific intelligence inputs.

According to officials, searches are ongoing at premises including the residences of senior officials from the Tamil Nadu Drug Control Office. The agency is investigating financial transactions and suspected proceeds of crime related to the production and distribution of the adulterated medicine.

The deaths caused by toxic cough syrups have raised national concern and prompted swift regulatory actions. Following these events, the Delhi government banned the sale, purchase, and distribution of Coldrif syrup after declaring it “not of standard quality,” according to an official order dated October 10.

The order stated:
“Coldrif Syrup (Paracetamol, Phenylephrine Hydrochloride, Chlorpheniramine Maleate Syrup), manufactured in May 2025 by Sresan Pharmaceuticals in Tamil Nadu, was found to contain Diethylene Glycol (46.28% w/v), a toxic chemical known to be hazardous to human health.”

All stakeholders were directed to immediately halt the sale, purchase, and distribution of the affected batch. The public has been strongly advised against consuming the product due to its potential health risks.

This incident underscores the critical importance of stringent quality control and regulatory oversight within the pharmaceutical industry to safeguard public health.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/cough-syrup-row-tamil-nadu-shuts-down-sresan-pharmaceuticals-after-cancelling-its-licence-23598484

US: Four killed, 20 injured in South Carolina bar shooting

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The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a shooting incident on St. Helena Island that left four people dead and several others injured.

According to a post on X, the Sheriff’s Office stated:
“Sheriff’s Office investigating shooting that injured multiple people on St. Helena.”

Officials reported that shortly before 1 a.m. on October 12, 2025, the Communications Center received numerous calls about a shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill, located at 7 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive on St. Helena Island.

Upon arrival, deputies found a large crowd with several individuals suffering from gunshot wounds. It was learned that hundreds of people had gathered at the location when the shooting occurred. Multiple victims and witnesses reportedly ran to nearby businesses and properties seeking shelter from the gunfire.

Several victims were transported by Beaufort County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to area hospitals, while others arrived on their own seeking medical attention for injuries sustained during the incident.

At this time, at least 20 people have been injured, with four victims transported to hospitals in critical condition. Unfortunately, four victims were pronounced deceased at the scene. The names of the victims have not been released.

The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office will share additional information once next of kin have been notified.

“This is a tragic and difficult incident for everyone. We ask for your patience as we continue to investigate this incident. Our thoughts are with all of the victims and their loved ones,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.

The Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating persons of interest and expressed appreciation for the support of multiple law enforcement agencies, area fire departments, and Beaufort County EMS personnel who assisted at the scene.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Investigator Master Sergeant Duncan at 843-255-3418. Residents are also encouraged to report suspicious or criminal activity through the non-emergency dispatch line at 843-524-2777 or by calling 844-TIPS-BFT (844-847-7238).

*Disclaimer: This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed and agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for the accuracy, trustworthiness, or reliability of the data. Mid-day management reserves the sole right to alter, delete, or remove content without notice at its discretion.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/us-four-killed-20-injured-in-south-carolina-bar-shooting-23598445

Nurturing young minds

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Ayesha, a 13-year-old girl from southern Punjab, used to be a bright, cheerful student. After the devastating floods this year, everything changed. Her family lost their home. Her father’s livelihood was washed away, and they were forced to relocate to a crowded shelter.

Since then, Ayesha has been struggling with persistent anxiety: trouble sleeping, constant worry, and sudden panic attacks at school. Her teachers noticed that she had become withdrawn and easily startled.

Ayesha’s story is not unique. Across Pakistan, thousands of children and adolescents like Ayesha are silently suffering the psychological consequences of disasters, climate change, poverty, displacement, and violence. Their pain is often invisible but no less real.

With the help of a local mental health and psychosocial support counsellor, and a trained teacher, Ayesha began to recover. She learned breathing techniques and mindfulness to manage her anxiety, joined a peer support group, and slowly regained her confidence. Her story is a reminder that healing is possible—that every child deserves the chance to thrive.

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With over 60 percent of Pakistan’s population under the age of 25, we are a remarkably young nation. This demographic reality presents both an opportunity and a responsibility. Ensuring the mental health of our children and adolescents is not only a moral imperative but also vital for our country’s future.

Unfortunately, many young people face a range of adversities that threaten their mental well-being. Natural disasters like floods and earthquakes displace families and disrupt lives. Poverty and unemployment create chronic stress and insecurity. Violence and abuse, both domestic and societal, leave deep emotional scars. Educational pressures, bullying, and lack of support in schools compound the burden.

Limited access to mental health services, especially in rural areas, leaves many without help. The result? A growing mental health crisis among Pakistan’s youth—one that demands urgent attention.

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Mental health isn’t just the absence of illness; it’s the foundation of how children think, feel, relate to others, and handle life’s challenges. Good mental health helps children thrive in school, build friendships, and grow into resilient adults. Poor mental health, on the other hand, can lead to academic failure, substance abuse, self-harm, and even suicide.

Yet, mental health remains one of the most neglected areas of public health in Pakistan. Stigma, lack of awareness, and limited resources mean that many children suffer in silence.

Child and adolescent mental health services are still in their infancy in our country. We struggle to establish formal referral pathways to psychiatric services for children with mental and behavioural problems, who are often presented to various practitioners in the community, including spiritual and faith healers.

Although the number of general adult psychiatrists is increasing, challenges remain in adding formal training programmes and specialised degree courses for trainees in many teaching institutions.

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Supporting the mental health of children and adolescents is not just the job of psychiatrists or psychologists; it’s a collective responsibility.

Parents are the frontline defenders of their children’s mental health. Open communication, emotional warmth, and consistent support can buffer children against stress. Parents should listen without judgment, encourage the expression of feelings, avoid harsh discipline or neglect, and seek help when needed.

Parenting programmes and community awareness campaigns can empower families to support their children better.

Schools are often the first place where signs of distress appear. Teachers and school staff can play a critical role in early identification and support. That is why Psychological First Aid (PFA) training for schoolteachers is a game-changer. It equips educators with the skills to recognise signs of emotional distress, provide basic support and reassurance, and refer children to appropriate services.

Creating safe, inclusive, and nurturing school environments can also dramatically improve mental health outcomes.

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Mental health services must be integrated into primary healthcare and community settings. The Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) programme is a vital initiative that aims to provide psychological support in emergencies, train frontline workers in mental healthcare, and build referral systems for specialised help.

Expanding MHPSS across districts and rural areas can ensure that help reaches those who need it most.

Faith leaders and community influencers can also help reduce stigma and promote compassion. Their voices can encourage families to seek help and support mental health initiatives.

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Investing in child and adolescent mental health is not just a moral imperative; it’s a strategic one. By investing in their mental well-being today, we lay the foundation for a healthier, more resilient society tomorrow.

Pakistan’s future depends on how well we care for its young minds today.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1350042-nurturing-young-minds

Four shot dead during homecoming weekend in Mississippi town

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Four people were killed in a shooting in the Mississippi Delta region following a high school football homecoming game, Mississippi state Sen. Derrick Simmons told The Associated Press. The incident occurred in the downtown area of the small town of Leland, Mississippi, where people had gathered after the game. Simmons, who represents the area, confirmed the information based on updates received from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and other law enforcement authorities involved in the investigation.

In addition to the four fatalities, four other victims were hospitalized in Greenville and later flown to a larger medical facility in the state capital, Jackson.

Authorities are currently seeking an 18-year-old man for questioning in connection with the shooting, according to a statement from the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office. The sheriff has urged anyone with information to contact the local police chief or sheriff’s office.

The shooting took place on the school campus during the Heidelberg Oilers’ homecoming football game on Friday night. However, it remains unclear exactly when the gunfire occurred or how close it was to the stadium.

Sheriff White, who was at the scene investigating on Saturday, stated, “Right now we’ve still got a subject at large, but I can’t give specifics.” He added that more information may be released in the coming days.

Leland is a small town of about 640 residents, located approximately 85 miles (137 kilometers) southeast of Jackson, the state capital.

*This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed and agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for the dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or accuracy of the content. Mid-day management and mid-day.com reserve the sole right to alter, delete, or remove content at their absolute discretion without prior notice.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/united-states-news-four-people-shot-dead-during-homecoming-weekend-in-mississippi-town-23598256

‘Black Mirror’ exposes the price we pay for convenience

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**Black Mirror Exposes the Price We Pay for Convenience**
*By Vinita Jain | Oct 11, 2025, 10:45 AM*

**What’s the Story?**
*Black Mirror*, the dystopian anthology series, has long been recognized for its thought-provoking exploration of technology and society. A central theme throughout the show is privacy. The series delves into how our personal data can be misused, how technology can invade our lives, and the often unforeseen consequences that follow. Here are some of the most important privacy lessons we can learn from *Black Mirror*.

### Surveillance: The Dangers of Surveillance Technology
Many episodes of *Black Mirror* highlight the risks associated with surveillance technology. From cameras to drones, the show portrays how constant monitoring can invade personal privacy and foster a pervasive sense of paranoia. While surveillance can enhance security, *Black Mirror* reminds us that it can also infringe on our personal freedom and autonomy.

### Social Media: The Impact on Privacy
Social media platforms frequently appear as a key element in *Black Mirror*’s critique of privacy concerns. The series underscores how sharing personal information online may lead to unintended consequences, such as losing control over one’s own data. It acts as a cautionary tale encouraging viewers to be mindful of what they share and to understand the potential risks involved.

### Data Misuse: Consequences of Exploitation
Another recurring theme is the dark side of data misuse, where personal information is exploited for malicious purposes or profit. *Black Mirror* emphasizes the critical importance of safeguarding personal data from unauthorized access and exploitation. Once data is released, controlling its usage becomes nearly impossible, and this reality poses significant challenges.

### Ethics: The Moral Implications of Technology
*Black Mirror* also explores the ethical questions surrounding technology, particularly regarding privacy. The series prompts viewers to consider the moral responsibilities of technology developers and users alike in protecting personal information. It encourages reflection on the ethical consequences of how we interact with technology.

### Innovation vs. Privacy: Finding the Balance
Finally, *Black Mirror* addresses the tension between technological innovation and privacy protection. While new technologies can bring tremendous benefits to our lives, they often come at the expense of privacy. The show highlights the need for careful consideration when integrating emerging technologies, ensuring that personal information remains secure.

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*Black Mirror* serves as a powerful reminder of the complex relationship between technology, convenience, and privacy. As we embrace innovation, it is crucial to remain vigilant about protecting our personal data and upholding ethical standards in the digital age.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/how-black-mirror-highlights-our-biggest-privacy-fears/story

Why J&J has been fined $966M in the US

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**Why J&J Has Been Fined $966M in the US**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 08, 2025, 05:15 PM*

Johnson & Johnson (J&J) has been ordered by a Los Angeles jury to pay $966 million to the family of a woman who died from mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer. This ruling follows the jury’s finding that the company’s talc products were linked to cancer.

### Background of the Case
The lawsuit was filed by the family of Mae Moore, an 88-year-old California resident who passed away in 2021. The family initiated the case against J&J in the same year, alleging that the company’s talc products contributed to her illness.

### Verdict Details
The jury awarded $16 million in compensatory damages and an astounding $950 million in punitive damages against J&J. In response, Erik Haas, J&J’s global vice president of litigation, announced the company’s intention to appeal the decision. He described the verdict as “egregious and unconstitutional” and criticized the plaintiff lawyers for relying on what he called “junk science” that should not have been admitted in court.

### Product Safety and Company Response
Despite the verdict, J&J maintains that its talc-based products are safe, contain no asbestos, and do not cause cancer. The company discontinued sales of talc-based baby powder in the United States in 2020, transitioning to a cornstarch-based alternative. It is important to note that mesothelioma has been medically linked to asbestos exposure.

Trey Branham, attorney for Moore’s family, expressed hope that this ruling will finally hold Johnson & Johnson accountable for what he termed “senseless deaths.”

### Ongoing Litigation
Johnson & Johnson currently faces over 67,000 lawsuits alleging cancer caused by its baby powder and other talc products. While the majority of these claims relate to ovarian cancer, mesothelioma cases form a smaller portion of the litigation.

The company has attempted to resolve the mass litigation by filing for bankruptcy protection, but three such proposals have been rejected by federal courts.

### Settlement and Trial Landscape
Though J&J has settled some mesothelioma claims, it has yet to achieve a nationwide settlement agreement. Consequently, many mesothelioma lawsuits have proceeded to trial in various state courts over recent months.

In the past year alone, J&J has faced several significant verdicts related to mesothelioma, with Monday’s ruling representing one of the largest monetary penalties to date. The company has, however, successfully reduced some awards on appeal, including a $260 million verdict overturned by a state judge in Oregon.

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This recent verdict underscores the ongoing legal challenges Johnson & Johnson faces concerning its talc products and the serious claims raised by affected consumers and their families. The company’s appeal process will be closely watched as these cases continue to unfold.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/j-j-hit-with-966m-verdict-in-talc-cancer-trial/story

NASHVILLE GOES DARK

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The government shutdown has caused another major air traffic control tower to go dark, leaving no one available to direct planes due to staffing shortages. Nashville’s air traffic approach control is expected to remain dark until after midnight, resulting in significant flight delays and ground stops.

According to the FAA’s website, the ground delay has already backed up flights by more than two hours at Nashville International Airport (BNA). BNA officials noted that the FAA informed them this reduction in manpower “will remain in effect until further notice.” All airlines have been notified of the slowdown, and travelers are advised to check the status of their flights with their airlines before arriving at the airport.

On Monday, a dozen facilities experienced staffing shortages, including Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy attributed some of these issues to many air traffic control workers calling out sick. “If we see there are issues in the tower that are affecting controllers’ ability to effectively control the airspace, we’ll reduce the rate, and you’ll see more delays or you might see a cancellation,” Duffy said.

Another major hub facing travel disruptions due to the government shutdown is Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport. The FAA announced a ground delay there starting at 7 p.m. ET and lasting until midnight. O’Hare, one of the busiest airports in the US and the world, handles over 80 million passengers annually and thousands of flights daily.

According to Axios, O’Hare has been experiencing staffing shortages and is expected to remain understaffed in its air traffic control tower for most of the day. FlightAware’s “Misery Map” tracks delayed flights at US airports and highlights travel hubs particularly impacted by the shutdown. So far, O’Hare has seen the most delays Tuesday afternoon, postponing over 60 flights since 2 p.m. ET.

These new travel headaches come less than a day after air traffic control towers at Hollywood Burbank Airport in California were left unmanned for hours due to the ongoing shutdown.

When The Daily Mail requested a comment from the White House on Monday, they received an automatic reply blaming Democrats for the shutdown. The message read: “Due to staff shortages resulting from the Democrat Shutdown, the typical 24/7 monitoring of this press inbox may experience delays.”

Despite the widespread delays, flight cancellations have so far been kept to a minimum nationwide, with only 61 flights into and out of the US cancelled on Tuesday.

Nick Daniels, President of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA), called for an immediate end to the shutdown during Duffy’s news conference. NATCA represents over 20,000 air traffic controllers and reports that many members have been working 10-hour shifts, six days a week. The shutdown has further strained these vital workers by furloughing support staff and suspending support programs.

Some major airports were already dealing with staffing shortages before Congress failed to pass a new spending bill on October 1. Newark Liberty International Airport, for example, has been plagued by staffing issues and dangerous radar blackouts throughout the year.

As the shutdown continues, travelers are urged to stay informed and prepare for possible delays at several key US airports.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-15171553

Mount Everest blizzard leaves over 200 climbers stranded, 350 rescued

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Over 200 hikers have been stranded after a blizzard struck the Tibetan slopes of Mount Everest, while around 350 others were safely escorted by villagers and rescue teams.

The conditions for those trapped at the campsites worsened on Sunday as snowfall continued unabated since Friday. Hundreds of local villagers and rescue personnel rushed essential supplies to the affected area.

According to a state-run CCTV report quoted by the BBC on Monday, more than 200 hikers remain trapped in the blizzard. Rescue teams have successfully guided approximately 350 climbers to safety.

Earlier reports indicated that over 1,000 holiday hikers were stranded in the slopes of Mount Everest, located in Karma Valley on the Chinese side of the mountain. Videos and eyewitness accounts shared on social media by the stranded climbers described thunder, strong winds, and continuous snowfall burying the tracks leading to the region on Sunday.

Chinese mainstream media has yet to provide detailed coverage of the blizzard, and only limited information is currently available. It is important to note that China is in the midst of an eight-day holiday starting October 1 to celebrate National Day and the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Mount Everest, known as Mt. Qomolangma in China, is the world’s highest peak, standing at over 8,849 meters.

In a related weather event, Typhoon Matmo, the 21st named storm of the 2025 Pacific typhoon season, made landfall along the eastern coast of Xuwen County, Zhanjiang City in southern China’s Guangdong Province on Sunday.

Local governments evacuated approximately 347,000 people from Guangdong and Hainan provinces in anticipation of the typhoon, which brought maximum wind speeds of 151 km/h.

*This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for the dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or accuracy of the text. Mid-day management and mid-day.com reserve the sole right to alter, delete, or remove (without notice) the content at their absolute discretion for any reason.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/over-200-climbers-stranded-after-blizzard-on-tibetan-slopes-of-mount-everest-350-rescued-23597421

Enzyme-based kidney conversion allows transplant from type A to universal type O

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For the first time, a team from the University of British Columbia (UBC), Canada, successfully performed a human kidney transplant using an organ converted from blood type A to the universal blood type O. This groundbreaking procedure relies on UBC’s special enzymes as a key tool to reduce organ rejection.

Patients with blood type O can only receive type-O organs, but type-O kidneys are often transplanted into recipients of other blood types due to their universal compatibility. The researchers’ initial goal was to create universal donor blood by removing the sugars that determine blood type. However, they discovered that these same sugars, known as antigens, also cover the blood vessels within organs.

In this pioneering case, an enzyme-converted kidney was transplanted into a brain-dead recipient. The organ initially functioned well, but by the third day, a mild immune reaction was observed—significantly less severe than the typical rejection response.

This breakthrough highlights the potential of enzyme conversion to expand the pool of compatible organs and reduce rejection in transplant patients.

*Disclaimer: This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for the dependability, trustworthiness, or reliability of the information contained herein. Mid-day management and mid-day.com reserve the right to alter, delete, or remove content at their sole discretion without prior notice.*

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https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/canadian-researchers-achieve-milestone-with-enzyme-converted-universal-donor-kidney-transplant-23597126