Authorities in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh have prohibited the distribution and sale of Halal-certified products, including dairy, garments, and medicines, citing illegality.
The ban, outlined in a government notification on Saturday, encompasses bakery products, sugar, edible oil, and other items labeled as ‘Halal-certified’ by the respective manufacturing companies.
The notification argues that the Halal certification system creates confusion about the quality of food products, asserting that it operates as a parallel system. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the nation’s apex body responsible for establishing standards for most food products, is highlighted in the notification as the authority determining the standards that food products should adhere to.
Uttar Pradesh, led by the Hindu monk Yogi Adityanath, a member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), is the state implementing this ban. Adityanath and his government have faced accusations from critics of pursuing a divisive agenda against the state’s significant Muslim population, allegations they consistently deny.
A BJP spokesperson emphasized on Monday that bringing religion into food is inappropriate, citing items like garments and sugar being labeled as Halal, which is deemed against the law.
OpenAI investors consider suing board after sudden firing of Sam Altman
In another development, following the removal of CEO Sam Altman and the potential for mass staff departures, some investors in OpenAI are reportedly considering legal action against the board, as per sources familiar with the matter.
Investors are exploring their options with legal advisors, raising concerns over potential catastrophic losses if the situation leads to the collapse of the prominent AI startup. Over 700 OpenAI employees have threatened to resign unless the board is replaced.
The unique aspect of this case is that OpenAI is controlled by its non-profit parent company, OpenAI Nonprofit, which aims to benefit humanity rather than OpenAI investors. Microsoft owns 49% of the company, while other investors and employees control 49%, with 2% owned by OpenAI’s nonprofit parent.
