Traders ban Pepsi, Coke in Tamil Nadu

Prominent traders' association in Tamil Nadu have declared a ban on multinational drink brands like coca-cola and Pepsi starting Wednesday. The associations want to go 'desi' by boycotting Coke and Pepsi and choosing to sell desi products instead. The ban is, however, unlikely to be complete since supermarkets are have not extended support to the boycott.

It may be noted that boycotting the two cola brands was proposed during the Jallikattu protests at Marina beach. The drinks' effects on the environment as well as health were highlighted pushing people to reject both brands.

Taking the rejection forward, leaders of Tamil Nadu Treaders



federation and COnsotium of Tamil Nadu Traders association have asked retail stores to stop sales of Coke and Pepsi and are encouraging traders to switch to desi brands like Torino and Bovonto.

Close to 20 lakh shops have been urged not to sell the two cola brands but not all are likely to comply especially supermarkets. Massive protests were seen against the two brands during the Jallikattu people's rising accusing the corporate giants of stealing water from farmers to produce drinks that have ill-effects on the health. While no official communication has come from the government, the traders have decided to impose a self-inspired ban.