LS fizz: MPs seek explanation on cola ban

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Priya Ranjan Dasmunshi, in his reply said a comprehensive legislation on food safety was awaiting presidential assent and would have to be notified to the state governments. He gave an assurance that the government would look into the issue.

However, soon after his reply, the BJP, other NDA members and Samajwadi Party MPs walked out in protest. CPI MP Gurudas Dasgupta said the cola companies had violated all safety norms and did not even print the list of ingredients on the label. Later, talking to reporters, he said colas should be banned and added that the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the All India Football Federation, who were the 8216;8216;biggest beneficiaries8217;8217; of cola sponsorship, should refrain from accepting this any more.