For me humanism is nationalism: Sasikanth Senthil

coastaldigest.com web desk

October 2, 2019

Mangaluru, Oct 2: Sasikanth Senthil, the former Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner, has said that he had expected backlash from a certain section of the society for quitting the IAS in protest against undemocratic steps being taken by the union government.

Speaking to media persons on the sidelines of the launch of Gandhi 150 Chintana Yatre at Sri Brahma Baidarkala Garodi Kshetra, Kankanady, here to mark Gandhi Jayanti, Mr Senthil said that he was read to work at the grassroots level and travel across the nation wherever there is a problem.

Senthil said that his resignation was a personal and national thing. “I have explained the reasons for my resignation in the letter. I was not under pressure from the state government. As a DC in three districts, I received good support from all the three parties in power. It is a personal and national thing.”

When asked to describe nationalism, he said, “For me humanism is nationalism. We are a nation which is built on those basic structures. There are indications and threats as always in any society. As long as we stand firm in our foundation, I don’t think this country that is very big, will be disturbed.”

Senthil said for the time being he will continue to work at the grassroots level, and was happy that people with whom he had worked within the district turned up for the event. The first time he appeared on a public platform was in Bengaluru, recently.

Senthil said that life has opened up for him after he submitted his resignation. “I am enjoying talking with people at the grassroots level. I understand their issues which I probably could not understand as the DC. In that way life has become interesting. I am more equipped to do good work as I can express, write, study and be with the public and even influence the government. I have taken the right choice and there is no negativity about my resignation. I have an ethical and moral responsibility to raise my voice to what is happening. If I did this, being part of the government, that would be unethical.”

Senthil stressed that politics was a big no for him, and that he would continue to work on people’s issues. “I am now on the ground, and I am anonymous and nobody. With my understanding of being the DC and seeing the ground level situation will help me in being a better person.”

Terming Dakshina Kannada as one of the best districts, he said that during his tenure as DC, no incidents of communal tension were reported. Meanwhile, it is learnt that his resignation formalities will take some time to get completed from the government side. On the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, Senthil said it was irrelevant to comment on US president Donald Trump calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the father of India.

“We are very happy now. He was totally into public service for nearly 10 years. Now I feel I have got my friend and husband back,” said Sujatha, Senthil’s wife.

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Warning! Cancer-causing chemicals found in bakery products, especially cakes in Karnataka

News Network

October 3,2024

Bengaluru: The Karnataka Food Safety and Quality Department has issued an urgent warning following the discovery of potentially cancer-causing chemicals in cakes sold by certain bakeries across the state.

Recent tests conducted by the department revealed that some cake samples, particularly those with vibrant colors, contain harmful synthetic coloring agents such as Allura Red, a substance known to pose health risks. The findings have raised concerns about the use of artificial colors in bakery products, especially given their potential link to cancer and other serious health conditions.

"We routinely test various food products, and this time, our officials noticed unusually dark-colored cakes on the market," said Srinivas K, Commissioner of Food Safety for Karnataka. "Upon testing, we found that a few cakes contained Allura Red, a synthetic dye associated with health risks."

The use of artificial colors, especially in popular cakes like red velvet and pineapple varieties, is widespread as it attracts customers, particularly children. However, many bakers prefer using natural, safer alternatives, while some opt for synthetic dyes to enhance the cake's visual appeal.

"Most bakeries use permissible, natural colors that are safe for consumption. Unfortunately, a few are resorting to synthetic dyes just to make their cakes more attractive," said a bakery owner from Electronic City, speaking anonymously.

Medical experts are warning that consuming synthetic colors can lead to numerous health issues, including asthma and allergic reactions.

"Some of these artificial dyes are carcinogenic, and prolonged exposure could have serious consequences, especially for children and young adults," cautioned Dr. Vandana G, a private medical practitioner.

While the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) confirms that only a limited number of samples tested positive for harmful colors, legal action is being taken against the violators.

"There is no need for widespread panic or halting production. We are closely monitoring the situation, and only a few bakeries were found to be non-compliant. Rest assured, appropriate legal measures are underway," assured an FSSAI official.

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