Sharief ends stir over Amanath Bank scam

August 5, 2013

Bangalore, Aug 5: Former Union minister and senior Congress leader C K Jaffer Sharief on Sunday ended his indefinite hunger strike after Chief Minister Siddaramaiah assured him that he will take necessary steps to revive the scam-hit Amanath Cooperative Bank.

Sharief had undertaken was on strike since past three days demanding the State government among others a CBI probe into the alleged misappropriation of crores of rupees in the bank and, steps to revive the institution. A delegation of Muslim leaders from the Congress led by Sharief had a fortnight ago petitioned to the Chief Minister, seeking a CBI probe.

Sharief resorted to strike as the government did not take any action. The strike had evoked good response with many Muslim leaders from the Congress such as R Roshan Baig and C M Ibrahim lending support. Interestingly, many political leaders including Union Minister for Minorities K Rahman Khan are alleged to be involved in the scam.

Although Siddaramaiah, who met Sharief, persuaded him to call off the strike, he did not give any assurance on ordering a CBI probe. “I have assured him that steps will be taken to revive the bank and he has called off the strike,” Siddaramaiah told reporters.

On the demand for a CBI probe, the Chief Minister said it has not been discussed.

Sharief said he will continue to demand for a CBI probe. “The State government has not been able to take action against those involved in the scam. People are suffering. Besides, those responsible for the scam should be punished. So I have advised the Chief Minister to hand over the case to the CBI so that there will be a fair investigation,” he stated.

Sharief's close aides said he has ended the strike only for the time being and would resume it after Ramadan, if action is not taken.

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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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