Pesticide-Contaminated Drinks Banned in Parliament After Alarming CSE Report

The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) released a report in August 2003 that sparked a ban on cold drinks in Parliament's canteen. The CSE, a Delhi-based research and advocacy organisation, tested samples of soft drinks from various parts of Delhi at its Pollution Monitoring Laboratory.

The results were alarming: all twelve brands tested showed traces of pesticide residues. Among the chemicals detected were lindane, DDT, malathion, and chlorpyrifos - substances known for their harmful health effects.

The matter reached the floor of the Lok Sabha, where MP Ramji Lal Suman brought it up during zero hour, accusing multinational companies of playing with people's lives. Several other members joined the discussion, including Pramod Panda, Anil Basu, Ramesh Chennithala, Raj Babbar, Kirit Somaiya, and N. Krishna Das.

In response to the debate, Chairman E. Ahmed directed the Parliament canteen to enforce a ban on Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and other aerated drinks, which was welcomed by MPs present in the House.