In a distressing turn of events, five lives have been lost in Kheda district, Gujarat, following the consumption of an ayurvedic syrup suspected of being adulterated. Bilodara village, in particular, witnessed three fatalities over the past two days, sparking concerns about the safety of the ‘Kalmeghasav – Asava Arishta’ syrup distributed by a local grocery shopkeeper.
According to Superintendent of Police Rajesh Gadhiya, the syrup, with a permissible alcohol content of 12%, has emerged as a potential cause behind these tragic deaths. Initial investigations conducted by Gujarat’s health minister, Rishikesh Patel, unveiled indications of chemical adulteration within the ayurvedic formulation, pointing to an external substance infiltrating the product from outside the state.
“An ongoing investigation is underway to pinpoint the hazardous chemical that contaminated the ayurvedic syrup,” affirmed Minister Patel. Samples have been dispatched to the Forensic Science Laboratory to undergo meticulous scrutiny, aiming to identify the specific contaminants and their potential health hazards.
The shopkeeper responsible for the distribution of the syrup has been apprehended by the authorities. Reports indicate that the syrup was disseminated among nearly 50 individuals within the vicinity. However, the shopkeeper contends that the product was exclusively sold to villagers and not to individuals from outside the community.
In a distressing revelation, a person residing seven kilometers from Bilodara village passed away on November 28 under suspicious circumstances. Authorities are probing whether the demise is directly linked to the consumption of the syrup, considering the individual’s pre-existing battle with cancer.
Moreover, the father of the shopkeeper, who also consumed the syrup, has been hospitalized for treatment. Adding to the complexity of the situation, another recent death in Vadadala village within Mahemadabad taluka, under mysterious circumstances, is under investigation to determine any potential connection to the fatalities in Kheda district.
As the investigation intensifies, authorities aim to shed light on the exact composition of the contaminated syrup and the circumstances surrounding these tragic deaths, seeking justice for the lives lost and ensuring the safety of the community against such adulterated products.
Sources By Agencies
