Maharashtra FDA Chief Tukaram Mundhe Tightens Accountability Over Negligence

Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has cautioned officials and staff against failing in their responsibilities or weakening enforcement efforts.

Mundhe has overseen several statewide drives against food safety violations since assuming charge. FDA teams have carried out raids targeting adulterated paneer, milk and sweets, poor-quality food at hotels and restaurants, as well as the illegal sale of gutkha.

While speaking to a Marathi television channel, Mundhe said the department would take a firm approach towards negligence, misconduct and compromises by its personnel.

Mundhe also highlighted the responsibility of local officials when illegal activities continue within their respective jurisdictions.

He cited a recent raid conducted in the early hours, which his office coordinated directly, and questioned why officials in the area had failed to detect the activities.

Mundhe said his team reached the site at 4:00 AM to conduct the raid and questioned local officers for failing to detect the activities under their jurisdiction.

Complaints Trigger Vigilance Action

The FDA Commissioner said authorities must also hold transporters and dealers accountable for violations, alongside Food Business Operators (FBOs).

He said his office had received complaints concerning alleged attempts by some FDA personnel to compromise enforcement proceedings.

“I have received complaints and initiated vigilance inquiries. Proposals for action against certain officers have already been submitted, particularly regarding dereliction of duty,” he said.

Mundhe said the department would differentiate between genuine mistakes and intentional violations, while stressing that deliberate misconduct would attract action.

He further said he had contacted Maharashtra government intelligence and vigilance agencies through both verbal and written requests to enhance monitoring of FDA personnel during the ongoing enforcement campaign.

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