Lok Sabha polls dates, artificial food colouring, and the Shakti remark row
Mar 19, 2024
auto_awesome
Topics include Lok Sabha polls extending to June due to delays, Karnataka's ban on food coloring, and controversy over Rahul Gandhi's 'shakti' remarks.
The Lok Sabha elections in India are extended into June due to factors like house term end, availability of forces, and electoral preparedness, ensuring fair elections with decent voter turnout.
Karnataka bans harmful food coloring agents in food items like Gobi Manchurian and cotton candy to mitigate health risks, imposing strict penalties for violations and emphasizing food safety monitoring.
Deep dives
Reasons for Extending Lok Sabha Polls into June
The Election Commission announced the extension of Lok Sabha polls until the start of June, making this the second longest election period in India's history. Factors like house term ending, availability of forces, and electoral preparedness influence the timing of elections. The Commission ensures fair elections and decent voter turnout by considering factors like favorable voting circumstances in relation to festivals and exams on the calendar.
Ban on Artificial Food Coloring in Karnataka
The Karnataka government banned harmful food coloring agents in items such as Gobi Manchurian and cotton candy, citing potential long-term health risks, including cancer. Samples revealed the presence of artificial coloring in tested food items, leading to significant health concerns. The government imposed strict penalties for violations, emphasizing the importance of monitoring food safety standards.
Controversy Over Rahul Gandhi's Remarks on Shakti
Rahul Gandhi's comments during a Mumbai rally sparked controversy, with Narendra Modi leveraging them to portray opposition sentiments against Hindu beliefs. Gandhi's reference to 'Shakti' and its interpretation led to contrasting views between political parties. Gandhi later clarified his remarks, stating that 'Shakti' symbolizes corruption and unrighteousness, challenging the existing power dynamics in Indian institutions.
First, Indian Express’ Chief of the National Bureau (Govt) Ritika Chopra joins us to explain why this time the Lok Sabha elections will extend all the way into the peak summer month of June.
Next, Indian Express’ Anonna Dutt tells us why Karnataka has banned food coloring used in gobhi manchurian and cotton candy (09:42).
And in the end, we discuss the controversy surrounding Rahul Gandhi’s ‘shakti’ remarks, along with PM Modi's response to it (16:11).
Hosted, written and produced by Shashank Bhargava Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode