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Kodgi highlighted that arecanut has held a sacred place in Indian culture since ancient times. Offering betel leaves along with arecanut during auspicious occasions symbolizes Indian tradition. Due to its medicinal properties, arecanut is accorded a special status in Ayurveda. He raised concerns that the WHO’s reports might lack transparency, casting doubts over their authenticity or potential manipulation.
Campco has conducted multiple studies, proving that areca nut is not carcinogenic. Instead, it possesses medicinal properties. A 1974 study by the Indian Institute of Science revealed that consumption of tobacco-free areca nut and betel leaves does not cause tumors. On the contrary, it found areca nut is effective in preventing tumor growth, he said.
Given these findings, Campco urged WHO to revisit its stance. Kodgi appealed to the central government to involve reputed research institutions such as ICMR, ICAR, AIUMS, CFTRI Mysuru, or the Indian Institute of Science to conduct further studies and present reports on arecanut.