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Inside Maharashtra FDA Crackdown: Can Tukaram Mundhe Shut Restaurants Overnight?
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News18•19-10-2026, 08:54
Inside Maharashtra FDA Crackdown: Can Tukaram Mundhe Shut Restaurants Overnight?
- •The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration under commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has intensified raids, suspending licences of prominent eateries and chains like Domino's, Pizza Hut, and Cafe Mondegar.
- •Major violations uncovered during statewide inspections include pest infestations, inadequate sanitation, improper food storage temperatures, and missing compliance records.
- •Under Section 32 of the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006, designated officers can immediately suspend a food licence without a 14-day notice if continued operations pose an immediate public health risk.
- •Recent interventions by the Bombay High Court have introduced judicial scrutiny into the FDA's enforcement, directing compensation and withdrawals in cases where businesses swiftly addressed deficiencies.
- •A licence suspension is a temporary regulatory measure requiring businesses to rectify issues, prove compliance through reinspection, and meet safety standards before resuming operations.
Key Questions Answered
Yes, Section 32 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 permits designated officers to suspend a licence immediately in the interest of public health, provided reasons are recorded in writing and the action is justified.
Inspections cited shortcomings including pest and insect infestations, improper food storage temperatures, poor sanitation, missing compliance records, inadequate drainage, and lack of separation between raw and cooked food.
Operators can challenge suspension orders through statutory appeal mechanisms and approach the courts, as seen when the Bombay High Court intervened to review enforcement actions and compliance rectifications.
