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US strikes 5th vessel off Venezuelan coast, killing 6

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**US Strikes Fifth Vessel Off Venezuelan Coast, Killing Six**

*By Snehil Singh | Oct 15, 2025, 12:31 PM*

The United States has struck another vessel off the Venezuelan coast, resulting in the deaths of six people. This marks the fifth such incident since September, occurring amid President Donald Trump’s intensified war on drugs.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump alleged that the targeted vessel belonged to “narcoterrorists” involved in trafficking narcotics. He also shared an aerial surveillance video showing the moment of impact.

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### Escalation of Conflict

The Pentagon has classified the suspected smugglers as “unlawful combatants,” labeling them as non-state armed groups and terrorist organizations. This designation follows a leaked memo to Congress, which stated that the U.S. is engaged in a “non-international armed conflict” with drug cartels.

The memo also highlighted ongoing tensions with Venezuela, including accusations against President Nicolás Maduro, who has been accused of facilitating drug trafficking operations.

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### Legal and Political Concerns

The U.S. government positions these strikes as acts of self-defense against drug traffickers. However, legal experts have raised concerns about the legitimacy of such military actions in international waters.

Critics argue that these operations could form part of a broader political strategy aimed at exerting military pressure on Maduro’s government. Notably, the strikes follow the U.S. announcement of a $50 million reward for information leading to Maduro’s arrest on drug-trafficking charges.

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### Rising Diplomatic Tensions

Venezuela has strongly condemned the U.S. strikes, with President Maduro denying any involvement in drug trafficking. Maduro has also threatened to declare a state of emergency if the country were to face military attacks from the U.S.

Diplomatic relations between the two nations have deteriorated significantly since President Trump authorized military actions against suspected drug boats linked to Venezuelan gang members.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/us-military-kills-6-people-in-5th-caribbean-strike-trump/story

‘Centre has failed Kerala people’: HC on Wayanad loan relief

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**‘Centre has failed Kerala people’: Kerala High Court on Wayanad Loan Relief**

*By Snehil Singh | Oct 08, 2025 04:44 pm*

The Kerala High Court has strongly criticized the central government for its refusal to waive loans of those affected by the devastating Wayanad landslides. The court declared that the Union government had “failed the people of Kerala,” emphasizing that the state “does not need the Centre’s charity.”

### Strong Judicial Critique of the Centre’s Stance

A Division Bench comprising Justice AK Jayasankaran Nambiar and Justice Jobin Sebastian expressed sharp disapproval of the Centre’s affidavit, which claimed that there was no legal provision to waive loans for disaster-affected individuals.

“Please tell the Union Government it has failed the people of Kerala,” the court remarked sternly to government counsel, dismissing the Centre’s position as mere “bureaucratic babble.” The judges stressed, “It is not about whether the Union can act, but whether they are willing to act.”

### Highlighting Funding Disparities

The court further pointed out that while the Centre had sanctioned relief funds for Assam and Gujarat floods — even though those floods were not classified as severe — financial assistance for Wayanad’s victims was withheld.

While expressing respect for the Constitution and the principle of separation of powers, the judges made it clear they would no longer issue directions to the Union government. Justice Nambiar remarked, “We don’t need the Union’s charity,” and ordered banks to immediately halt loan recovery from the affected persons.

### Next Steps in Legal Proceedings

The bench also announced that banks would be formally impleaded in the case and asked to clarify whether they intended to waive the loans fully or partially. “Provide the names of the banks. We will issue notice to them and implead them. Until they respond, we will direct a stay on recovery actions,” the court declared.

The matter is set to be heard again in two weeks.

### Background

The High Court’s suo motu case was initiated following catastrophic landslides that struck Wayanad district on July 30, 2024. The disaster claimed dozens of lives and displaced hundreds of residents, leaving many struggling to recover financially and emotionally.

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*This judgment highlights ongoing tensions between the state and central governments over disaster relief and loan waiver policies, reflecting broader challenges in addressing the needs of vulnerable communities in India.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/we-don-t-need-your-charity-kerala-hc-to-centre/story

‘Centre has failed Kerala people’: HC on Wayanad loan relief

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**‘Centre has failed Kerala people’: High Court on Wayanad Loan Relief**

*By Snehil Singh | October 8, 2025, 4:44 PM*

The Kerala High Court has strongly criticized the central government for its refusal to waive loans of those affected by the devastating landslides in Wayanad. The Division Bench, comprising Justice AK Jayasankaran Nambiar and Justice Jobin Sebastian, stated that the Union government had “failed the people of Kerala” and emphasized that the state “does not need the Centre’s charity.”

### Court’s Legal Critique: ‘Bureaucratic Babble’

The court was highly critical of the Centre’s affidavit, which argued that there was no legal provision allowing the waiver of loans for disaster-affected individuals. Addressing government counsel, the judges remarked, “Please tell the Union Government it has failed the people of Kerala,” dismissing the Centre’s stance as mere “bureaucratic babble.”

They clarified, “It is not about whether the Union can act, but whether they are willing to act.”

### Funding Disparity Highlighted

Highlighting a funding disparity, the court noted that the Centre had sanctioned relief funds for Assam and Gujarat floods, although these were not classified as severe disasters. While expressing respect for the Constitution and the separation of powers, the judges clearly stated they would no longer issue directions to the Union government.

“We don’t need the Union’s charity,” Justice Nambiar asserted, while simultaneously ordering banks to immediately stop all loan recovery proceedings against the affected persons.

### Legal Proceedings and Bank Involvement

The bench announced that banks would be impleaded in the case and directed them to clarify whether they planned to waive loans, either fully or partially. “Provide the names of the banks. We will issue notices and implead them. Until we receive their responses, we direct a stay on all recovery actions,” the court said.

The matter is scheduled to be heard again in two weeks.

### Background

This suo motu case was initiated by the Kerala High Court after massive landslides struck Wayanad on July 30, 2024, resulting in dozens of deaths and displacing hundreds of residents.

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*Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/we-don-t-need-your-charity-kerala-hc-to-centre/story

Cough syrup deaths: PIL in SC seeks CBI probe

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**Cough Syrup Deaths: PIL in Supreme Court Seeks CBI Probe**

*By Snehil Singh | October 7, 2025, 4:29 PM*

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the deaths of 14 children in Madhya Pradesh, allegedly after consuming a cough syrup. The PIL demands an investigation led by a retired Supreme Court judge into the manufacturing, regulation, testing, and distribution of contaminated cough syrups, ANI reported.

Several children across different states reportedly died after consuming Coldrif cough syrup, which was found to contain diethylene glycol (DEG), a highly toxic industrial solvent.

### Ban and Quality Concerns

The Union Health Ministry has confirmed that Coldrif cough syrup, produced by Sresan Pharma in Tamil Nadu, contained DEG levels beyond permissible limits. A Drug Testing Laboratory in Chennai declared the product “Not of Standard Quality” after testing a sample, a finding also confirmed by the Tamil Nadu Directorate of Drug Control.

Following these findings and mounting concerns due to child deaths linked to suspected renal failure, Tamil Nadu became the first state to ban the sale and distribution of Coldrif syrup.

### Actions Taken by Other States

In response to the crisis, Madhya Pradesh and Kerala have also banned Coldrif cough syrup. Telangana issued a public alert warning consumers about the product, while the Punjab government directed all retailers and healthcare institutions to cease purchasing or using Coldrif.

The tragic incident has led to widespread confiscation of stock nationwide and prompted stringent revisions to drug prescription guidelines in states such as Kerala and Karnataka.

### Historical Context: WHO Warnings Over Indian Cough Syrups

This is not the first time Indian-made cough syrups have been linked to fatal outcomes. In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) associated cough syrups from Maiden Pharmaceuticals with the deaths of 70 children in The Gambia due to acute kidney injuries caused by DEG and ethylene glycol (EG).

In 2023, Uzbekistan reported at least 18 child deaths linked to Indian-made cough syrup manufactured by Marion Biotech, triggering another WHO warning.

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The ongoing investigation and regulatory actions highlight the urgent need for stricter quality control and oversight in pharmaceutical manufacturing to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/cough-syrup-deaths-pil-seeks-cbi-probe-states-ban-coldrif/story

‘Benefits India’: Russian expert backs RD-93 engines sale to Pakistan

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**‘Benefits India’: Russian Expert Backs RD-93 Engines Sale to Pakistan**

*By Snehil Singh | Oct 06, 2025, 03:45 PM*

A recent report on the sale of Russian RD-93 engines to Pakistan for its JF-17 aircraft has stirred significant debate. However, a Russian defense expert has come forward to defend the deal, suggesting it could actually benefit India in unexpected ways.

**Strategic Insight from Russia**

Pyotr Topychkanov, head of the Section on New Challenges in South and Southeast Asia at Moscow’s Primakov Institute, emphasized that the reported transaction highlights China and Pakistan’s continued reliance on Russian technology.

According to Topychkanov, “Firstly, it shows that China and Pakistan haven’t yet managed to replace the Russian-origin engine. Secondly, the new aircraft will be familiar and predictable to India, especially since they share the same engine and India observed the JF-17’s operational use during the May 2025 crisis (Operation Sindoor).”

He argued that this predictability could offer India a strategic advantage in anticipating JF-17 capabilities given the shared engine technology.

**Conflicting Reports from Moscow**

Despite these assertions, another senior Russian source denied any confirmation of such a deal. In a conversation with WION, the insider called the reports illogical for serious observers monitoring India-Russia defense relations.

The source also suggested that these rumors might be driven by ulterior motives, potentially aiming to undermine the promising cooperation ahead of upcoming high-level engagements between the countries.

**Political Controversy in India**

The alleged engine sale has sparked political backlash in India. The opposition Congress party has heavily criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government for allegedly allowing Russia to supply advanced RD-93 engines to Pakistan.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh questioned why Russia would provide military support to Pakistan while India continues to purchase S-400 missile systems and negotiate for Su-57 stealth fighters from Moscow. He condemned the government for what he described as a lack of vigilance in safeguarding India’s strategic interests.

**BJP Stands Firm**

In response, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) defended the Modi government against these allegations, labeling the reports as “reckless information warfare.”

Amit Malviya, head of BJP’s IT cell, cited a report that included Russia’s clarification on the matter. He accused Ramesh of spreading unsubstantiated claims on social media based on content from a website known for pro-Pakistan propaganda.

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The debate over the RD-93 engine sale continues to fuel discussions on India-Russia-Pakistan defense dynamics, highlighting the complex nature of geopolitical alliances and regional security concerns.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/russian-expert-defends-rd-93-sale-to-pakistan/story

‘Benefits India’: Russian expert backs RD-93 engines sale to Pakistan

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**‘Benefits India’: Russian Expert Backs RD-93 Engines Sale to Pakistan**

*By Snehil Singh | October 6, 2025, 3:45 PM*

A recent report about Russia supplying RD-93 engines to Pakistan for its JF-17 aircraft has sparked intense debate. However, a Russian defense expert has come forward defending the move, suggesting it could actually benefit India in unexpected ways.

**Strategic Insight from Russia**

Pyotr Topychkanov, head of the Section on New Challenges in South and Southeast Asia at Moscow’s Primakov Institute, shed light on the potential strategic implications of the deal. According to him, if the sale is indeed going ahead, it reveals an important dynamic — China and Pakistan remain dependent on Russian technology despite efforts to diversify.

Topychkanov explained, “Firstly, it shows that China and Pakistan haven’t yet managed to replace the Russian-origin engine. Secondly, the new aircraft will be familiar and predictable to India, especially since they share the same engine. India also observed the JF-17’s operational use during the May 2025 crisis (Operation Sindoor).”

This familiarity could give India a tactical advantage by making the behavior and performance of Pakistan’s JF-17 fleet more predictable in combat scenarios.

**Denial from Another Russian Source**

Despite Topychkanov’s comments, a senior Russian insider has denied any official confirmation of the RD-93 engine supply to Pakistan. Speaking exclusively to WION, the source called the rumors “illogical” and suggested they might be attempts to disrupt growing ties between Russia and India, especially in light of upcoming high-level engagements.

**Political Fallout in India**

The alleged deal has also ignited political controversy domestically. The Indian National Congress party has strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government for failing to prevent Russia from supporting Pakistan militarily.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh questioned the logic behind Russia supplying advanced engines to Pakistan while India continues to procure Russian defense systems like the S-400 missile system and negotiates for Su-57 stealth fighters.

**BJP’s Defense of the Government**

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has dismissed the allegations as baseless and part of a “reckless information warfare” campaign. Amit Malviya, BJP’s IT cell head, referenced Russia’s clarification on the matter and accused Ramesh of spreading misinformation based on reports from sources with a known pro-Pakistan bias.

**Conclusion**

While the controversy continues, the discourse highlights the complex interplay of defense diplomacy and strategic calculations in South Asia. Whether or not the RD-93 engines are being supplied to Pakistan, the debate underscores the sensitivity surrounding military technology transfers and the geopolitical ramifications for the region.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/russian-expert-defends-rd-93-sale-to-pakistan/story

‘Benefits India’: Russian expert backs RD-93 engines sale to Pakistan

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**‘Benefits India’: Russian Expert Supports Reported Sale of RD-93 Engines to Pakistan**

*By Snehil Singh | Oct 06, 2025, 3:45 PM*

A recent report about Russia potentially supplying RD-93 engines to Pakistan for its JF-17 fighter aircraft has sparked significant discussion. While the news has caused controversy in India, a Russian defense expert asserts that such a deal could actually offer strategic benefits to India.

**Russian Expert Highlights Strategic Advantage**

Pyotr Topychkanov, head of the Section on New Challenges in South and Southeast Asia at Moscow’s Primakov Institute, defended the reported sale. He emphasized that if true, the deal underscores China and Pakistan’s continued dependence on Russian technology.

Topychkanov explained that this dependence works in India’s favor by making the JF-17 aircraft more predictable. “Firstly, it shows that China and Pakistan haven’t yet managed to replace the Russian-origin engine. Secondly, the new aircraft will be familiar and predictable to India, especially since they share the same engine and India observed the JF-17’s operational use during the May 2025 crisis (Operation Sindoor),” he stated.

**Contradictory Reports on Engine Sale**

Despite the expert’s comments, a senior Russian official denied any confirmation of the RD-93 engine supply deal to Pakistan. In a conversation with WION, the insider labeled the rumors as illogical, especially for those closely monitoring major defense deals between Russia and India. The source suggested that these reports might be driven by ulterior motives aimed at undermining promising cooperation ahead of high-level diplomatic contacts.

**Political Fallout in India**

The alleged deal has ignited political controversy within India. The opposition Congress party has criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government for failing to prevent the sale of advanced RD-93 engines to Pakistan. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh questioned why Russia would continue offering military support to Pakistan while India is actively procuring sophisticated defense equipment like the S-400 missile systems and negotiating for the Su-57 stealth fighters from Moscow.

In response, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) defended the government, dismissing the reports as “reckless information warfare.” BJP IT-cell head Amit Malviya cited Russia’s clarification on the matter and accused Congress leaders of making baseless accusations based on sources known for pro-Pakistan propaganda.

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This developing story highlights the complex interplay of defense diplomacy, strategic interests, and political narratives shaping India-Russia-Pakistan relations. Further official updates are awaited to clarify the situation.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/russian-expert-defends-rd-93-sale-to-pakistan/story

11 children’s deaths: Drug watchdog urges strict action against Coldrif

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**11 Children’s Deaths: Drug Watchdog Urges Strict Action Against Coldrif**

*By Snehil Singh | Oct 05, 2025, 11:11 am*

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) is gearing up to take stringent action against the manufacturers of Coldrif syrup following the tragic deaths of 11 children, allegedly due to contaminated cough syrups.

The CDSCO has directed the Tamil Nadu Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to initiate strict measures under serious offense regulations, according to a report by news agency ANI.

### National Conference and Government Response

In response to this crisis, the Union Health Secretary is set to hold a video conference with health officials from all states and Union Territories. The meeting’s objective is to discuss the rational use of cough syrups and enforce drug quality standards nationwide.

This step comes after the deaths of 11 children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan were linked to the consumption of contaminated cough syrups, raising serious concerns about drug safety.

### Ongoing Investigation and Risk-Based Inspections

The CDSCO has launched risk-based inspections of drug manufacturing units across six states — Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra. Investigators have collected 19 samples from these states for thorough testing.

A multidisciplinary team of experts is currently analyzing the samples to pinpoint the exact cause behind the deaths reported in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh.

### Sample Analysis and Findings

Earlier this week, the CDSCO confirmed that six samples tested by them, along with three from the Madhya Pradesh Food and Drugs Administration, were free from toxic compounds such as Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and Ethylene Glycol (EG). These substances are known to cause severe kidney damage.

However, it was clarified that the tested samples did not include the two suspicious cough syrups, including Coldrif, which remain under scrutiny.

### Regional Actions Against Coldrif Syrup

In light of these developments, several states have taken proactive measures against Coldrif syrup. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh have imposed bans on its sale. Telangana has issued a public alert urging people to stop using the product immediately.

These actions are part of broader efforts to ensure drug safety and uphold quality standards across India, following the heartbreaking loss of children linked to contaminated cough syrups.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent further casualties.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/drug-watchdog-urges-strict-action-against-coldrif-makers-report/story

11 children’s deaths: Drug watchdog urges strict action against Coldrif

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**11 Children’s Deaths: Drug Watchdog Urges Strict Action Against Coldrif**

*By Snehil Singh | Oct 05, 2025, 11:11 AM*

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) is set to take stringent action against the manufacturers of Coldrif syrup following the tragic deaths of 11 children, allegedly caused by contaminated cough syrups.

According to reports from ANI, the CDSCO has directed the Tamil Nadu Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to initiate strict measures under serious offense provisions to tackle this grave issue.

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**Union Health Secretary to Convene National Conference**

In response to the crisis, the Union Health Secretary will conduct a video conference with health officials from all states and Union Territories. The discussion will focus on the rational use of cough syrups and enforcing drug quality standards nationwide.

This move follows the deaths of 11 children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, which have been linked to contaminated cough syrups.

—

**Ongoing Investigations and Inspections**

The CDSCO has launched risk-based inspections targeting drug manufacturing units across six states: Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.

Authorities have collected 19 samples from these regions for comprehensive testing. A multidisciplinary team of experts is currently analyzing the samples to uncover the cause behind the fatalities in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh.

—

**Sample Analysis Results**

Earlier this week, the CDSCO confirmed that six of its tested samples, along with three from the Madhya Pradesh Food and Drugs Administration, were free from toxic compounds such as Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and Ethylene Glycol (EG). These chemicals are notorious for causing severe kidney damage.

However, officials clarified that these tested samples did not include the two cough syrups under suspicion, including Coldrif.

—

**Regional Actions Against Coldrif Syrup**

In light of the findings, several states have taken immediate action against Coldrif syrup. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh have imposed bans on its sale. Meanwhile, Telangana has issued a public alert advising citizens to discontinue use of the product.

These measures are part of a larger effort to ensure drug safety and quality across India, following the heartbreaking loss of young lives allegedly linked to contaminated cough syrups.

—

*Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/drug-watchdog-urges-strict-action-against-coldrif-makers-report/story

11 children’s deaths: Drug watchdog urges strict action against Coldrif

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**11 Children’s Deaths: Drug Watchdog Urges Strict Action Against Coldrif**

*By Snehil Singh | Oct 05, 2025, 11:11 AM*

—

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) is set to take stringent action against the manufacturers of Coldrif syrup following the tragic deaths of 11 children, allegedly caused by contaminated cough syrups.

According to reports from ANI, the CDSCO has directed the Tamil Nadu Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to initiate strict measures under serious offenses to address the issue.

**National Conference to Address Drug Safety**

In response to the incident, the Union Health Secretary will conduct a video conference with health officials from all states and Union Territories. The meeting aims to discuss the rational use of cough syrups and enhance drug quality standards across India.

This initiative comes amid investigations linking the deaths of 11 children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan to contaminated cough syrups.

**Ongoing Investigation and Risk-Based Inspections**

The CDSCO has commenced risk-based inspections of drug manufacturing units in six states: Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.

Authorities have collected 19 samples from these regions for comprehensive testing. A multidisciplinary team of experts is currently analyzing these samples to determine the cause of fatalities in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh.

**Sample Analysis Results**

Earlier this week, the CDSCO confirmed that six tested samples, along with three from the Madhya Pradesh Food and Drugs Administration, were free from toxic compounds such as Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and Ethylene Glycol (EG). These substances are known to cause severe kidney damage.

However, officials noted that these tested samples did not include the two cough syrups currently under scrutiny, including Coldrif.

**Regional Actions Taken**

Following the CDSCO’s findings, several states have taken decisive steps against Coldrif syrup. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh have banned the sale of the product.

Meanwhile, Telangana has issued a public alert advising people to stop using Coldrif syrup immediately.

These actions form part of a broader effort to safeguard drug safety and quality in India after the unfortunate deaths linked to contaminated cough syrups.

—

*Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/drug-watchdog-urges-strict-action-against-coldrif-makers-report/story