Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the Uttar Pradesh government, accusing it of gross negligence in the alleged supply of fake cough syrup across the state. Calling it a “poisonous scam,” Yadav demanded a judicial inquiry, claiming that spurious medicines have infiltrated hospitals, jails, and homes under the government’s watch.

Citing a report by a private organization, Yadav alleged that the Health Department’s silence over the issue indicates complicity and political shielding. “Who is being protected by this silence? The supply of fake syrup under the government’s nose is not negligence, it’s a criminal act. BJP’s corruption has now reached a point where it is threatening lives,” he said in a post on his official social media account.

The SP leader also suggested that those behind the illicit trade enjoy political backing, calling for strict punitive measures against the offenders. “This is not merely a case of counterfeit medicine—it is a crime against humanity,” Yadav declared, emphasizing that public trust in the healthcare system is at stake.

The controversy comes amid heightened concern following similar incidents in Madhya Pradesh, where several children reportedly died after consuming contaminated syrup. In response, health and food safety authorities in Uttar Pradesh have intensified inspections across multiple districts, including Lucknow, Kanpur, and Prayagraj.

Officials confirmed that raids have uncovered large stocks of fake syrups labeled under counterfeit brand names. Laboratory analysis revealed the presence of harmful chemicals unsuitable for human consumption. Several factory units and warehouses have since been sealed, and samples have been sent for forensic testing.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has instructed officials to enforce a “zero-tolerance” approach toward the illegal drug trade, directing strict monitoring of pharmaceutical supply chains. However, opposition leaders, including Akhilesh Yadav, maintain that the state’s response has been “superficial” and that “the masterminds remain untouched.”

“The people of Uttar Pradesh deserve answers,” Yadav added, demanding that the government make the details of the investigation public and ensure accountability at every level of the administration.