After TN, Kerala traders' union calls for ban on Coke and Pepsi

It may be recalled that the Kerala government had moved to ban the production and sale of Coca-cola and Pepsi back in 2009 when the same LDF was in power.

Coke, Pepsi and their subsidiary cola drinks are all set to fizzle out in Kerala post March 14. The traders and farmers union in Kerala called for a statewide ban on the sale of cola drinks of multinational companies on Wednesday. Members of the association told media persons in Thiruvananthapuram that retailers and wholesalers affiliated to the union will stop the sale of aerated drinks from March 14 in protest of alleged water exploitation by the companies.

[Tamil Nadu: Ban call on Coke, Pepsi comes into effect]

Drought-hit Kerala has been seeing acute water shortage with farmers bearing the brunt. Accusing the multinational companies o exploiting water resources in the state, the union has called for a ban. The members also claimed that the decision was absolute and no talks will be held with the companies' representatives.

"We will not hold any discussions with the soft drink companies but are willing to hold discussions with the government on the matter. We hope that the government supports out decision," members told media persons

Just like in Tamil Nadu, no ban whatsoever was sought on domestic cola products. It may be recalled that the Kerala government had moved to ban the production and sale of Coca-cola and Pepsi back in 2009 when the same LDF was in power.

OneIndia News