Rajasthan Assembly Debates Cough Syrup Deaths and Wildlife Compensation

The Rajasthan Assembly witnessed a heated discussion on Tuesday over the deaths allegedly linked to cough syrup consumption. The government clarified that these deaths were caused by 'overdosing and comorbidity,' particularly since the medicine was administered without medical advice.

During the session, opposition parties raised questions about wildlife-related deaths, urging the government to enhance compensation. Forest Minister Sanjay Sharma announced plans to increase compensation for wild animal attack victims from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh, with changes to relevant rules underway.

Questions also arose concerning the state's free medicine scheme and potential ties to recent child fatalities due to syrup consumption. Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khimsar stated the cough syrup was not prescribed by government doctors, and his assurances did little to quell opposition concerns about the pharmaceutical company involved.