Author: SAQIB SHAFI

  • Allahabad High Court Declares UP Madrasa Education Act Unconstitutional

    Allahabad High Court Declares UP Madrasa Education Act Unconstitutional

    The Allahabad High Court, by a verdict given on 22.3.2024  has declared the UP Board of Madarsa Education Act, 2004 to be unconstitutional, being against the principle of secularism.

    https://www.firstpost.com/india/studying-in-madrasa-violates-secularism-allahabad-hc-declares-madarsa-education-unconstitutional-13752135.html

    https://www.newsclick.in/explained-why-has-allahabad-hc-struck-down-madarsa-act

    The full judgment is given below :

    https://www.livelaw.in/pdf_upload/anshuman-singh-rathore-vs-union-of-india-thru-secy-ministry-of-edu-new-delhi-and-3-others-2024-livelaw-ab-189-allahabad-high-court-529904.pdf

    I agree with the verdict that madarsa education violates the constitutional principle of secularism. It also violates Article 21A of the Indian Constitution which declares the right to get education upto the age of 14 a fundamental right of every child. 

    Education, to my mind, means modern, secular education, not the largely theological education imparted in madarsas or saraswati shishu mandirs, which inculcate bigotry, and brainwash the tender and susceptible minds of children with religious extremism.

    No doubt in para 100 of the judgment the Court observed :

    ”Since there are a large number of madarsas and madarsa students in the State of U.P., the State Government is directed to take steps forthwith for accommodating these madarsa students in regular schools recognized under the Primary Education Board and schools recognized under the High School and Intermediate Education Board of State of U.P. The State Government for the said purpose shall ensure that as per requirement sufficient number of additional seats are created and further if required, sufficient number of new schools are established. The State Government shall also ensure that children between the ages of 6 to 14 years are not left without admission in duly recognized institutions ”

    However this is easier said than done. Already the existing government secular schools are overcrowded ( some have 200 students in one section of a class, as I have myself seen ), and private schools are extremely expensive. 

    It is estimated that there are 25,000 madarsas in UP, of which 18,500 are recognised by the UP Madarsa Education Board. There are about 25 lac ( 2.5 million ) students in these madarsas,and thousands of teachers.

    So before closing down the existing madarsas, thousands of modern secular schools will have to be built, with proper classrooms, laboratories, libraries, etc and competent teachers and other staff appointed. This will require a huge outlay of funds, and careful planning, and cannot be done overnight..

    I would also like to suggest a way to accomodate the thousands of teachers who will be rendered unemployed by the closure of madarsas.

    I have delivered a judgment in 1993 in the Allahabad High Court, Ramesh Upadhya vs State of UP, in which I have recommended that Sanskrit and Urdu, our two great cultural language, should be made compulsory in every school in UP for 5 years upto class 8.

    https://www.casemine.com/judgement/in/56e14632607dba3896627186

    If this judgment is implemented a large number of posts of Urdu teachers will be created, and the teachers presently teaching in madarsas ( who would all be knowing Urdu ) can be appointed on those posts.

    Also, on the same logic, saraswati shishu mandirs run by the RSS should also be closed down, and the students transferred to modern secular schools

  • JNUSU elections 2024

    JNUSU elections 2024

    The Leftists have swept the polls in the recent elections for the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union elections ( JNUSU Election )

    JNUSU elections 2024
    JNUSU ELECTIONS

    https://www.news18.com/india/saffron-wave-in-left-bastion-jnu-as-abvp-leads-in-all-4-posts-of-students-union-election-counting-underway-8827172.html

    https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/in-first-jnu-student-polls-in-4-years-left-sweeps-40-101711306391166.html

    This is being hailed as a great victory for the poor people of India.

    But going by past experience one can safely predict that after leaving the JNU these ‘revolutionaries’ who have won the elections will in later life forget all about revolution and the poor people of India, and start thinking of building a career for themselves. Some ‘revolutionaries’ may end up in Congress, like Kanhaiya Kumar, former President of JNUSU, or like Shehla Rashid, former Vice President, who may join the BJP.

    There is a long list of such turncoats who at one time were hero worshipped in JNU when they were students there, and reckoned as rising stars in the red firmament, and therefore the hopes of the poor people, but are today occupying cushy jobs/posts in the civil services, in the corporate world, in academia, in politics, and elsewhere, with fat salaries and perks, in India, or even abroad.

    One is reminded of English poet Robert Browning’s poem ‘The Lost Leader

    I have always had a poor opinion of Indian Universities, and I particularly regard JNU as a highly overrated one

    https://www.facebook.com/justicekatju/posts/818456554861559/

    https://www.facebook.com/justicekatju/posts/nowadays-jnu-is-being-praised-all-over-india-and-even-abroad-as-a-great-centre-o/1145953232111888/

    I was once invited to speak in JNU

    But I dont think the newly elected office bearers of JNUSU will invite me. They may fear I will speak about how history shows that most ‘leftists’ ended up as rightists, in India, and all over the world

  • One cannot murder a ghost

    One cannot murder a ghost

    The Aam Aadmi Party has called the arrest of its leader, Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister of Delhi, as the murder of democracy in India

    Justice Katju: Kejriwal's Arrest Triggers Democracy Debate in India
    Delhi Chief Minister: Arvind Kejariwal

    AAP leaders have called for a nationwide protest against it, and some protests have taken place

    Opposition leaders, such as Rahul Gandhi, Sharad Pawar, Mamata Banerji, Akhilesh Yadav, Shashi Tharoor, etc, and a section of the media too are shouting themselves hoarse that arrest of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal amounts to murder of democracy in India

    I am not going into the merits of the charges against Kejriwal, which principally relate to a massive liquor scam

    However, in my opinion the question whether democracy has been murdered in India or not by this arrest arises only if we presuppose that there was democracy in India in the first place at all, or just a charade or a sham pretending to be democracy. 

    As defined by US President Lincoln, democracy means government of the people, by the people, and for the people.

    Modern democracies cannot be government of the people. That was only possible in ancient times e.g. in Greek city states like Athens, where there was direct democracy. With the growth in population people cannot gather together in one forum and rule themselves. So it has to be a representative democracy.

    As for government by the people, this implies that even if there is indirect or representative democracy, the leaders really represent the people, and hence can be equated or identified with the people, not just in the sense of being elected by them, but by working for their welfare, and securing them better lives.

    Does this happen in India ? Not at all. Our political leaders only seek power and pelf, and do not have any genuine love for the people, nor really care for their welfare. To achieve power they polarise society on caste and religious lines, seeking vote banks, for which they incite and spread hatred, an activity in which they are experts.

    Is our ‘democracy’ for the people ? Again, the answer has to be in the negative. As stated above, our politicians work for themselves, or their kith and kin, not for the welfare of the people. This is evident from the fact that even 77 years after Independence, there is massive poverty, record and rising unemployment, appalling level of child malnourishment ( every second child in India is malnourished, according to Global Hunger Index ), skyrocketing prices of essential commodities like food, fuel and medicines, almost total lack of proper healthcare and good education for the masses, atrocities on minorities, etc.

    https://indicanews.com/justice-markandey-katju-lies-damned-lies-and-statistics-in-india/

    https://indicanews.com/justice-markandey-katju-why-i-dont-celebrate-on-republic-day/

    https://indicanews.com/justice-markandey-katju-there-are-two-indias-in-india/

    https://indicanews.com/justice-markandey-katju-the-truth-behind-indias-explosive-gdp-growth/

    So where is democracy in India, which is said to have been murdered ? One cannot murder a ghost, or something which does not exist

  • Those who have not seen Holi of Braj have not seen India

    Those who have not seen Holi of Braj have not seen India

    Holi, the festival of colours, is played in most of India for one day ( this year it will be on 25th March ).

    Justice Katju Urges Joint Holi Celebrations in Pakistan and Bangladesh
    Holi

    But in Braj Mandal ( the area around Mathura city ( comprising of Mathura, Gokul, Vrindavan, Govardhan, Barsana, Nandgaon, etc ) ) it is played for one full week, commencing from Holi Day.

    I believe that one who has not seen Braj ki Holi has not seen India

    https://indicanews.com/justice-katju-those-who-have-not-seen-brij-ki-holi-have-not-seen-india/

    Throughout the week, commencing from Holi day, Braj Mandal is full of colours everywhere. Skits are performed in several places showing Lord Krishna’s life and ‘raas leela’ i.e. dalliance with the gopis ( girls ) of Vrindavan, and especially with his beloved Radha.

    On the first day of the week, i.e. Holi day ( which will be this year tomorrow, 25th March ) there will be ‘lathmaar Holi’ at Barsaana, a place about 40 kms from Mathura city. There is a famous Radha temple in Barsaana on a small hill, which I have visited. There women of 80, girls of 5, and females of all ages in between, can be seen dancing all the time.

    In Barsaana people do not say ‘Jai Shri Krishna’ as is said elsewhere, but ‘Radhe Radhe’. That is because they believe that Krishna deserted them when he was attacked by Jarasandh and fled to Dwarka in Gujarat, but Radha remained with them.

    On this day boys of Nandgaon, which is about 7-8 kms from Barsaana ( and where it is believed Krishna had spent part of his childhood ) march all the way to Barsaana, where the womenfolk beat the former on their heads ( probably symbolising their anger at Krishna who had deserted their Radha ). The boys have to wear protective headgear, else they may be seriously injured, so fierce is the beating.

    The last day of the Holi week in Braj is ‘Dauji ka Huranga’. Dauji is Balaram, the elder brother of Lord Krishna, and there is his temple situated about 30 kms from Mathura where this event takes place. There is a square courtyard there surrounded by buildings, filled with 1 or 2 feet coloured water. On this occasion the womenfolk tear off the upper garments of the menfolk there, dip them in the coloured water, and then beat the menfolk with those torn clothes ( probably symbolising getting back at the ill treatment they got from their menfolk for 364 days in the year ). In the meantime colour is flying around everywhere in the air.

    I have appealed to Pakistanis and Bangladeshis to also play Holi

    For seeing more videos of Brij ki Holi, Lathmaar Holi, Dauji ka Huranga, etc see on youtube

  • Justice Katju Urges Joint Holi Celebrations in Pakistan and Bangladesh

    Justice Katju Urges Joint Holi Celebrations in Pakistan and Bangladesh

    Holi, the festival of colour, is falling on 25th March this year. I appeal to Pakistanis and Bangladeshis of all communities to celebrate it together.

    Justice Katju Urges Joint Holi Celebrations in Pakistan and Bangladesh

    Before 1857 Hindus would participate in Eid and Muharram, and Muslims in Holi and Diwali together, and there was no communal feeling among them. There were no communal riots or animosity till that time.

    In 1857 the Great Mutiny broke out, in which Hindus and Muslims jointly fought against the British. After suppressing the Mutiny the British decided that the only way to control and rule over India was divide and rule, that is, create animosity between Hindus and Muslims

    I may here give a historical account of an incident which occurred before 1857

    Inn the reign of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah of Avadh, the capital of which was Lucknow, Muharram and Holi once fell on the same day. Muharram is an occasion of ghami or sorrow (for Imam Husain, grandson of the Prophet and his 72 followers who were killed in the battle of Karbala by the forces of the tyrant Yazid) while Holi is an occasion of celebration (the festival of colours, marking the beginning of spring).

    The Hindus of Lucknow decided not to celebrate Holi that year out of respect for the sentiments of their Muslim brothers and sisters, who were in grief.

    The Nawab took out the tazia from the Bada Imambada in Lucknow in a procession and buried it in Karbala, a site in Lucknow with the same name as the place where Imam Husain was martyred. Having done so, he asked why people were not playing Holi. After being told the reason, the Nawab said that since our Hindu brethren have respected the sentiments of Muslims, it is also the duty of the Muslims to respect the sentiments of Hindus, and declared that Holi must be played the same day. And he was the first to start playing Holi and it was played all over Avadh by both Hindus and Muslims, although it was also Muharram.

    The Moghuls and other Muslim rulers and their subjects ( including Muslims ) would celebrate and play Holi with great gusto. There are many accounts and paintings to prove this, as given below.

    https://www.awazthevoice.in/culture-news/mughals-nawabas-turned-holi-into-state-festival-10495.html

    http://scroll.in/article/800900/in-mughal-india-holi-was-celebrated-with-the-same-pomp-as-eid

    https://sabrangindia.in/article/colourful-history-holi-and-islam/

    http://scroll.in/article/711675/these-miniature-paintings-show-how-the-mughals-and-other-indians-royals-celebrated-holi

    https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/phoolon-wali-holi-during-qutub-shahi-era-reflects-ganga-jamuni-tehzeeb/articleshow/90315654.cms

    https://sabrangindia.in/article/who-says-holi-just-hindu-festival-muslim-scholars-sufi-mystics-mughal-emperors-not-speak/

    https://indianexpress.com/article/research/akbars-court-to-bulleh-shah-couplets-colours-of-indias-many-religions-blended-over-holi-7823260/

    https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/who-says-holi-is-a-hindu-festival/story-wLBl9qfCogU9rbc1Kw6EON.html

    https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/in-good-faith-holi-mughal-era-colours-hindu-festival-muslim-culture-5663983/

    After 1857 the British, through their local agents, propagated the idea that Holi was only a Hindu festival, and it was unislamic to celebrate it,  and so many Muslims stopped playing it. 

    It is high time now that this false propaganda be put an end to, and all people in the Indian subcontinent again start celebrating each others festivals, including Holi, which is a symbol of our composite ‘Ganga Jamuna tehzeeb’

    In this connection, here is my interview by my Pakistani friend, Sajjad Azhar Pirzada, a journalist based in Lahore, on Holi

     Here is a beautiful poem on Holi by the great Urdu poet, Nazir Akbaradi

    And here are some Pakistani youth, both Hindu and Muslim, celebrating Holi

    I was pained to learn that a few years back the Pakistan Higher Education Commission banned Holi celebrations in Universities, calling them ‘Unislamic’, when students of Quaid-e-Azam University, Islamabad ( both Hindus and Mulims ) celebrated it.

    I appeal to Pakistani ( and Bangladeshi ) youth, particularly Muslims, to defy such a silly ban if it is again imposed this year, and jointly celebrate Holi this year with their Hindu brothers and sisters, with great enthusiasm, fervour and verve, and thus give a blow to religious bigotry, which is plaguing our sub continent.

  • Death anniversary of Bhagat Singh

    Death anniversary of Bhagat Singh

    Today, 23rd March, is the death anniversary of one of my heroes, Bhagat Singh

    Death anniversary of Bhagat Singh
    Bhagat Singh

    I have expressed my views about him in several articles, facebook posts, blogs, and youtube videos, given below, so I am not repeating them.

    Many people say that India got Independence because of Gandhi. I totally disagree.

    A real freedom struggle is always a violent struggle. This is because no imperialist power gives up its conquered country without an armed struggle. Did George Washington fight against the British rulers of America from 1775-1781 with an army ( the Continental army ) or by presenting the British flowers and bouquets ? Did Bolivar fight the Spanish rulers of Latin America with his batallions, or with lollipops ? Did Ho Chi Minh fight the French with guns or by satyagraha and fasting ? Did the Chinese fight the Japanese with salt marches ?


    The British left India not because of Gandhi, but because in the Second World War Germany attacked and weakened England, and may have possibly conquered it, but for American help. And the Americans gave that help by putting pressure on the British to give Independence to India so that the Indian market and raw materials may not remain monopolised by the British, but be opened up for American investment too.


    Our real freedom fighters were Bhagat Singh, Surya Sen ( Masterda ), Chandrashekhar Azad, Ashfaqulla, Rajguru, Khudiram Bose, Ram Prasad Bismil, etc. They were taking our freedom struggle against the British in the correct revolutionary direction, and had they succeeded we would have had a prosperous India today.

    But instead our forefathers stupidly deserted them and followed Gandhi who diverted the freedom struggle towards a nonsensical channel called satyagrah which was harmless and posed no danger to British economic interests. 

    In our history books the real patriots like Bhagat Singh, Surya Sen, Chandrashekhar Azad, Ashfaqulla etc are barely mentioned. They are generally relegated to a footnote, and treated as mavericks, deviants or outsiders, not freedom fighters. Instead, Gandhi and his coterie, are depicted as the real freedom fighters.

    Gandhi described the militant Indian youth fighting against British Imperialism as ‘misguided souls’. He often said that militant nationalism was injurious to India’s struggle for freedom. In reality he knew that if those methods became widespread among the Indian masses his own popularity would decline, and his ‘ Mahatmahood ‘ would disappear.

    When the British sentenced Bhagat Singh to death, Gandhi made no effort to save his life. He never wrote any letter to the British Viceroy to commute his sentence , nor did he issue any public appeal for this purpose, and he never went to meet Bhagat Singh in jail when the latter was on hunger strike.Because of our forefathers’ stupidity we are still suffering today with massive poverty, massive unemployment, massive child malnutrition, almost total lack of healthcare and good education for the masses, skyrocketing prices, atrocities on minorities, etc.

    Is this real freedom ? If we had instead followed the revolutionary path of Bhagat Singh and other real freedom fighters we would have today had a prosperous India, with our people enjoying a high standard of living, and leading decent lives.

  • Yamaha MT 15: The Stylish Rival That’s Making KTM Sweat – Discover What Sets It Apart!

    Yamaha MT 15: The Stylish Rival That’s Making KTM Sweat – Discover What Sets It Apart!

    Yamaha MT 15: The Maverick Machine Redefining Street Style

    "Yamaha MT 15: A sleek black motorcycle cruising down an open road with mountains in the background."
    Yamaha MT 15

    Yamaha MT 15 has burst onto the scene, challenging the status quo and giving its rivals a run for their money.

    Here’s a point-by-point breakdown of what makes the MT 15 the talk of the town:

    1. Engineered for Excellence:
    The MT 15 boasts a robust engine that’s all about premium performance. It’s not just about the ride; it’s about the rush that comes with it.

    2. Seating that Speaks Comfort:
    Yamaha understands that comfort is key. The MT 15’s seats are designed to ensure that every journey is as comfortable as it is thrilling.

    3. Technological Triumph:
    With an advanced LCD instrument console, the MT 15 is a tech enthusiast’s dream. It’s not just about getting from A to B; it’s about being connected every step of the way.

    4. Wi-Connect: Your World on Your Handlebars:
    The MT 15’s Wi-Connect app syncs your smartphone to your ride, bringing your digital life onto the open road.

    5. Affordability Meets Aspiration:
    Starting at Rs 1,68,000, the MT 15 is positioned as a budget-friendly beast that doesn’t skimp on features. It’s about owning the experience, not just the bike.

    "Yamaha MT 15: Dominating the Streets with Style and Power!"
    Yamaha MT 15

    The Yamaha MT 15 isn’t just setting new benchmarks; it’s creating a whole new playground. With its combination of style, comfort, and technology, it’s not just making KTM sweat—it’s rewriting the rules of the road.

    What is the price of the Yamaha MT 15?

    "Yamaha MT 15: Unleashing Power and Elegance on the Road!"

    The Yamaha MT 15 is available at a starting price of Rs 1,68,000.

    What are the key features of the Yamaha MT 15?

    "Yamaha MT 15: Unleashing Power and Elegance on the Road!"

    The key features include a strong engine with premium features, comfortable seats, and an advanced LCD instrument console.

  • How Entrepreneurs Can Get a Home Loan in 2024

    How Entrepreneurs Can Get a Home Loan in 2024

    Strategic Steps for Entrepreneurs: Securing Your Dream Home Loan

    For many entrepreneurs, owning a home is more than a personal milestone; it symbolizes success and stability. However, the process of obtaining a home loan can be more complex for the self-employed due to their unique financial situations. Understanding the nuances of securing a mortgage as an entrepreneur is crucial for turning your dream of homeownership into reality. This News Caravan article will delve into the steps you, as an entrepreneur, can take to navigate the home loan process successfully.

    Knowing the Process – Home Loan

    Understanding the Home-Buying Process: A Guide for Entrepreneurs

    Grasping the intricacies of the home-buying process is critical for making informed and cost-effective decisions. Opting for “as-is” properties can be a strategic move for potential savings, as they are often priced lower. However, it’s imperative to proceed cautiously by conducting thorough inspections to preclude future expensive repairs. You also need to look at the land records and consult a legal professional before getting too deep into the process. Knowledge of each phase of the home-buying journey facilitates significant financial savings and ensures a more seamless transaction.

    Keep Your Credit History Thriving

    Credit Management Tips for Entrepreneurs Applying for Home Loans

    A strong credit history is crucial for loan approval, particularly for entrepreneurs. Lenders view a good credit score as a sign of financial responsibility, which is even more critical when you have a variable income. Make sure to pay your bills on time, keep your credit card balances low, and avoid taking on excessive new debts. Regularly checking your credit report for errors and addressing them promptly can also help maintain a healthy credit score.

    Maintain Your Track Record

    Showcasing Business Stability: Financial Track Record for Home Loan Approval

    When applying for a home loan, your business’s financial health and track record are key factors that lenders evaluate. Demonstrating a pattern of consistent profitability and stable income over several years is crucial. To substantiate your business’s performance, be prepared to provide detailed financial records, such as profit and loss statements and balance sheets. A well-established business track record enhances your credibility with lenders and can be a decisive factor in securing a loan.

    Create a Business Bank Account

    Financial Organization for Entrepreneurs: Importance of Business Bank Accounts

    Keeping personal and business finances distinct is essential. This separation simplifies your financial management and makes it easier for lenders to assess your loan application. Use separate bank accounts and credit cards for personal and business expenses. Clear financial boundaries can enhance your loan eligibility and potentially improve loan terms.

    Have Your Documents Ready

    "Prepare for Success: Essential Documents for Entrepreneurs Seeking Home Loans"

    Be prepared to provide extensive financial documentation when applying for a home loan. This includes personal and business tax returns, profit and loss statements, bank statements, and any other relevant financial records. These documents give lenders a clear picture of your income stability and loan repayment ability. The more comprehensive and organized your financial documentation, the smoother the loan process will be.

    Speak with a Mortgage Professional

    Expert Guidance for Entrepreneurs: Working with Mortgage Professionals

    Working with mortgage professionals experienced in self-employed loans can be invaluable. They understand entrepreneurs’ challenges and can guide you through the application process. Mortgage professionals can also help you find the best loan products suited to your unique financial situation. Their expertise can be a significant asset in navigating the complexities of home loan approval.

    Watch Your DTI

    Debt-to-Income Ratio: Optimizing Your Finances for Mortgage Approval

    The debt-to-income ratio is pivotal in approving your mortgage application, as it assesses your monthly debt payments relative to your income. To enhance this ratio, reduce your personal and business debts. Achieving a lower debt-to-income ratio makes you more appealing to lenders. Consequently, it can result in more advantageous loan terms, increasing your chances of approval.

    As an entrepreneur, navigating the home loan process requires careful financial planning and a strategic approach. You can enhance your chances of loan approval by maintaining a strong credit history, demonstrating a solid business track record, consulting with mortgage professionals, and implementing the other tips above. Take these proactive steps toward securing your dream home, and embrace the opportunity to turn your entrepreneurial success into a personal achievement.

  • Kashmir Food Safety Department Confirms: Watermelons Safe for Consumption

    Kashmir Food Safety Department Confirms: Watermelons Safe for Consumption

    Srinagar, March 15, 2024 – The Food Safety Department of Kashmir has dismissed claims of watermelons being artificially ripened with chemicals, reassuring consumers of the fruit’s safety for consumption.

    images 26 Watermelon

    Deputy Commissioner of the Food Safety Department, Shugufta Jalal, affirmed that rigorous testing by experts specializing in food technology across the region has conclusively refuted allegations of premature ripening.

    Jalal emphasized that the department’s tests, employing advanced equipment for both surveillance and in-depth analysis, have confirmed the safety of watermelons available in Kashmir markets. Contrary to claims suggesting otherwise, she highlighted that watermelons are cultivated throughout the year in various parts of India due to the country’s diverse climatic conditions, ensuring their availability in all seasons.

    In response to the recent controversy sparked by a viral social media post by a oncologist doctor alleging chemical ripening of watermelons, Jalal criticized the lack of consultation with authorities before making public statements. She expressed concern over the undue distress caused among the population due to such unverified claims.

    “The department remains committed to maintaining stringent food safety standards and preventing misinformation from causing panic,” Jalal asserted.

    She assured the public of ongoing monitoring efforts and transparent communication to uphold trust and ensure the health and safety of all consumers.

    The controversy comes at a time when watermelons are a staple fruit during Ramadan, often consumed during Iftar. Despite concerns raised by the social media post, consumers can be reassured of the safety of watermelons available in Kashmir markets, as confirmed by the Food Safety Department’s thorough testing.

    For further inquiries or concerns regarding food safety, consumers are encouraged to reach out to the Food Safety Department of Kashmir for accurate information and guidance.

  • Warning Issued Against Artificially Ripened Watermelons: Health Risks Highlighted

    Warning Issued Against Artificially Ripened Watermelons: Health Risks Highlighted

    In preparation for Ramadan, Dr. Wajahat MD, a Clinical Oncologist and Regional Head of Pal Care Foundation, has issued a crucial warning regarding the consumption of artificially ripened watermelons.

    Through a comprehensive social media post, Dr. Wajahat sheds light on the dangers associated with chemically-treated watermelons and emphasizes the importance of consumer awareness.

    Here are the key points highlighted in his message:

    • Adulterants Used in Watermelon:
    1. Forchlorofenuron: A growth accelerator that promotes rapid cell division and delays cell death, enhancing the fruit’s size artificially.
    2. Erythrosine-B (Red-B): Injected to give the watermelon a bright red color, making it visually appealing but potentially harmful.
    Artificially Ripened Watermelons
    • Chemicals Used in Artificial Ripening:
    1. Oxytocin: Frequently used for quick ripening but unsafe for human consumption, leading to stomach aches and potential nervous breakdowns if overdosed.
    2. Calcium Carbide: Releases Ethylene upon contact with moisture, hastening the ripening process. However, it can cause adverse effects ranging from mild headaches to deadly cancer.
    • Identification of Adulteration:
    1. Lack of Taste: Growth enhancers promote cell division at speeds higher than natural, resulting in a bland taste.
    2. Water Test: Cutting a small slice and placing it in water can reveal the presence of red color agents if the water changes color quickly.
    3. Time Delay Test: A method for further verification.
    • Best Practices While Shopping for Watermelon:
    Artificially Ripened Watermelons
    1. Look for a pale yellow patch, indicating natural ripening.
    2. Check for web-like spots, suggesting pollination by bees.
    3. Pay attention to the tail color, which should be dry and dark black or brown for naturally ripened watermelons. Adulterated ones may have a green stalk.
    • Importance of Industry Responsibility:

    • Dr. Wajahat emphasizes that sellers have a responsibility to ensure the quality and safety of the produce they offer. This includes rigorous checks to prevent the sale of adulterated watermelons.

    • Educational Purpose:

    • The tweet serves as an educational tool to raise awareness among consumers about the risks associated with consuming chemically-treated watermelons.

    • Call for Action:

    • As Ramadan approaches, consumers are urged to make informed choices and prioritize their health by avoiding artificially ripened watermelons.

    Dr. Wajahat’s advocacy highlights the need for industry-wide accountability and regulation to ensure the availability of safe and unadulterated produce. As consumers, it is essential to remain vigilant and prioritize health over convenience, especially during festive seasons when demand for certain fruits is high.

    Stay informed and ahead with The News Caravan—your destination for the most authentic and insightful news coverage.