Traders ban Pepsi, Coca-Cola in Tamil Nadu, those flouting order warned of action

With continuing debates on the harmful effects of consuming Pepsi coke and other soft drinks, Tamil Nadu traders union has today boycotted the consumption of such drinks in the state. The Tamil Nadu traders union has, however, defended the move and Vikram Raja from the union has stated that Pepsi and coke are not healthy drinks and also have certain harmful germs and so the soft drinks bands had been banned.

Despite the attractive incentives offered by multi-national cola companies, nearly 70 percent of members of Tamil Nadu Vanigar Sangangalin Peramaippu have stopped selling Coca-Cola and Pepsi brands, a top leader of the trader’s organization said. The traders association in January called upon its members to boycott the two foreign cola brands and urged them to promote fresh juice and drinks made by Indian companies.

Speaking to the media here today, Vikrama Raja, President of TN Traders Union revealed that although traders were notified of the ban on Coke and Pepsi, hotels and restaurants have not implemented the same, therefore evoking strict action upon them.

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“Almost 70 percent of the stores have stopped sales of the soft drinks. However, some restaurants and hotels are continuing sales, probably due to the fear of incurring losses. Strict action will be taken against them,” said Raja.

Furthermore, he stated that the soft drinks will be manufactured hereafter in India itself, as a replacement to the ones being circulated currently in the market.

“Beverages like Coke and Pepsi have adverse effects on one’s health. They contain a lot of harmful substances, which we believe, will lead to deterioration in consumers’ health. We have been supported by students and certain others communities on this ban. We will ensure that the sale is completely stopped,” added Raja.

The TNVSP is an umbrella organization of around 6,000 traders’ associations with membership of around 15 lakh across the state. “We are selling old stocks as the companies are not taking back the bottles,” a shopkeeper told IANS.

(With inputs from agencies)