According to an affidavit filed in the Delhi high court by Food and Safety Standards Authority of India, health ministers of all states and union territories have been asked to consider withdrawal of carbonated beverages and junk foods (pizza, pakoras and burgers) from school and college canteens.
Many youngsters feel that rather than a blanket ban, there should be awareness programmes talking about the ill-effects of junk food.
As explained in the affidavit, junk food can cause obesity, dental cavities, diabetes and heart disease. Divya Sabharwal, a Delhi University student says, “Who doesn’t know that junk foods aren’t good for health? Sometimes, when there is no option, you opt for a burger. Rather than completely banning junk food, more interesting options should be made available in college and school canteens.”
The court is due to hear the public interest litigation filed by an NGO, seeking a ban on sale of junk food and carbonated drinks within a 1,500-feet-radius of schools.
“Banning junk food in schools is understandable, but doing so in colleges and universities is a bit too much. On one side you encourage youth exercise their right to vote, and on the other hand, you tell them what they should not eat?,” says Aseem Sachdeva, a student. “So spread awareness amongst junior students, and let seniors decide for themselves,” Divya adds.