Silent sit-in protest by farmers against land acquisition for Mangalore Refinery

coastaldigest.com web desk

November 9, 2018

Mangaluru, Nov 9: Members of Krishi Bhoomi Samrakshana Samiti (KBSS) supported by the Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha (KRRS) sat in a silent protest in the Deputy Commissioner’s (DC) office at State Bank, Mangaluru on November 9 at 10.00 a. m. for the withdrawal of the land acquisition for Mangalore Refinery's fourth phase.

The commencement of this protest was by being seated in the corridors of the DC office without uttering a word. Hundreds of them including the farmers of Kuthethoor and Permude with social activist Vidya Dinker took part in this campaign. The protest did not disrupt work in the DC office or pose any kind of obstruction.

“This protest was for seven hours, where all of us were unified and gave our best to make this protest a success,” said Mr William D’Souza, the KBSS vice president.

Riya Tomy, a MSW student from St Aloysius College said, “The people who were concerned about the farmers cause provided support by delivering food in the DC office.”

The farmers’ sit-in protest was a success as Sasikanth Senthil S., IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Dakshina Kannada district finally relented and sent a letter to the Government of Karnataka.

“The protest in DC office today was successful. If our demand would not have been fulfilled then we had the plan of staying until our expectations were met. The DC sent our letter with his observations and suggestions to the Government of Karnataka so we concluded our protest for today.” Said Mr Lawrence D'Cunha, the Secretary of KBSS and he further added that this fight would not be stopped until they get their justice.

“We farmers have been struggling since 2008 and have won in 2011, but the same situation is aroused again in 2015 with this fourth phase for the expansion of the same MRPL industry, yet we farmers have never lost hopes nor our strength to protect the land.” said John Pinto, a farmer from Permude.

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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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