Digest for 15 October, 2025
WHO Issues Global Alert for 3 Indian Cough Syrups After Child Deaths
The World Health Organization issued a global medical alert for three Indian-made cough syrups—Coldrif, Respifresh TR, and ReLife—linked to the deaths of at least 24 children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. The syrups were found to contain toxic diethylene glycol (DEG). The WHO urged increased surveillance of unregulated markets worldwide. Indian authorities have halted production at the implicated manufacturing sites and initiated product recalls, while the Tamil Nadu government has cancelled the manufacturing license for one of the firms.
Prominent Indian-American Strategist Ashley Tellis Arrested in US for Retaining Secret Documents
Ashley Tellis, a renowned Indian-American strategic affairs expert and a key architect of the India-US civil nuclear deal, has been arrested in Virginia, USA. The 64-year-old is charged with unlawfully retaining national defence information. An FBI search of the Carnegie Endowment senior fellow's home allegedly uncovered over a thousand pages of classified documents. Tellis, who previously advised the US National Security Council and State Department, faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted of the charges.
Pakistani and Afghan Forces Clash Again at Border Amid Escalating Tensions
Fresh clashes erupted between Pakistani and Afghan forces along their northwestern border for the second time this week, escalating regional tensions. Pakistani state media accused Afghan troops of initiating "unprovoked fire" in the Kurram district, prompting a strong response that reportedly damaged Afghan military posts. The conflict follows deadly exchanges over the weekend and has led to the closure of all border crossings, disrupting trade and travel. Pakistan continues to accuse Kabul of harbouring TTP militants, a charge Afghanistan denies.
Probe Into Haryana IPS Officer's Suicide Progresses as Family Consents to Autopsy
The family of Haryana IPS officer Y Puran Kumar, who died by suicide on October 7, has consented to an autopsy after a week-long standoff. The decision followed action by the state government, which sent DGP Shatrujeet Kapur on leave—one of several senior officers Kumar accused of caste-based harassment in a detailed note. Kumar's wife, IAS officer Amneet P Kumar, stated her consent was based on assurances of a fair and transparent investigation into the grave allegations.
Supreme Court Allows Green Crackers in Delhi-NCR for Diwali
The Supreme Court has temporarily relaxed its ban on firecrackers in Delhi-NCR, permitting the sale and use of regulated "green crackers" for the upcoming Diwali festival. Acknowledging that illegal firecrackers are often smuggled into the region anyway, the court stated it was taking a "balanced approach" to allow for moderated celebrations while not compromising the environment. Pollution control boards have been ordered to monitor air quality levels during the festival and submit a report to the court.