K'taka Govt firm on banning aerated drinks

Bangalore, Dec 20 (UNI) Stung by the Karnataka High Court striking down its earlier ban on aerated drinks, the State Government has now banned its sale and distribution with immediate effect on the premises of schools, colleges and hostels throughout the State under Article 162 of the Constitution, Health Minister R Ashok said today.

Talking to reporters here, he said a notification in this regard had been issued on December 18 as the soft drinks caused harmful effects on the health of children. The State Government had withdrawn the earlier ban issued under the Central Food Adulteration Act following the questioning of its power by the court.

Mr Ashok said the Government was now banning the carbonated drinks after consideration of material and in the interest of the health and well being of the children and students under the constitutional powers vested in it.

He said the aerated drinks were causing childhood obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis and tooth cavities.

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