Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe defended a crackdown on food establishments, saying the department can suspend licenses immediately to prevent public health hazards.
The enforcement drive targets eateries in Mumbai that fail to meet safety standards. Because foodborne illnesses can spread rapidly in densely populated urban centers, the immediate suspension of licenses serves as a primary tool to mitigate widespread risk.
Speaking on July 29, 2026 [2], Mundhe said the actions are based on existing legislation. He cited Section 32 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 [1], which allows the government to act quickly when a health hazard is likely.
"We follow the law," Mundhe said.
The commissioner said the drive targets threats to public health and is backed by the 2006 act [1]. Under these regulations, the FDA does not need to wait for a prolonged trial or hearing if the immediate risk to consumers is evident.
Establishments across Mumbai have faced increased scrutiny as the FDA implements these measures. The crackdown focuses on ensuring that food preparation and storage meet the legal requirements mandated by the state.
"The drive targets threats to public health and is backed by Section 32 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006," Mundhe said [1].
Local eateries are now adjusting their operations to avoid the risk of immediate closure. The FDA said the priority remains the protection of citizens over the operational continuity of non-compliant businesses.
“"We follow the law."”
The aggressive application of Section 32 of the 2006 Act signals a shift toward preventative enforcement in Maharashtra. By prioritizing immediate suspension over gradual warnings, the FDA is leveraging its legal authority to force rapid compliance across Mumbai's food industry, potentially reducing the incidence of foodborne outbreaks but increasing the regulatory pressure on small-scale vendors.
