VHP protest against abattoir modernisation, says UTK’s proposal will disturb peace

coastaldigest.com web desk
October 12, 2018

Mangaluru, Oct 12: Activists of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and the Bajrang Dal on Friday protested against the proposal of Mangalore Smart City Ltd. (MSCL) to modernise the old abattoir in Kudroli at an estimated cost of Rs. 15 crore.

VHP district general secretary Sharan Pumpwell said it was unfortunate that district in-charge Minister U.T. Khader proposed modernisation of the abattoir under the Smart City Project while ignoring the city’s pressing works such as road improvement, drainage works and water supply.

They said that by proposing improvement of the abattoir, Mr. Khader has touched a sensitive issue which would disturb peace in the area.

VHP district president Jagadish Shenva said the abattoir in Kudroli could not be improved at the present location and had to be moved out.

He said the VHP and the Bajrang Dal will not allow use of smart city project funds for improvement of abattoir at the present location.

Mr. Khader had suggested modernisation of the abattoir and three other works to Mangaluru City Corporation Commissioner Mohammed Nazeer, who is also the Managing Director of MSCL, for taking up under the Smart City Project.

In a meeting on September 5, the board of MSCL proposed taking up the work. The BJP MLAs have opposed this proposal. Meanwhile, a meeting of MSCL board was called on Friday to ratify minutes of the September 5 meeting.

Leader of Opposition in MCC Premanand Shetty, who is a director of MSCL, told The Hindu that it was postponed. “We are yet to be told of the new date,” he said.

In a press conference, Ivan D’Souza, MLC, on Friday said the BJP and VHP was unnecessarily politicising the issue.

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News Network
October 3,2024

cancer.jpg

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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