‘Tired of scolding your officers’: Court pulls up FDA over suspension of food licences

The Bombay High Court criticized the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for not heeding its instructions regarding the suspension of food licences for five outlets at the Mumbai Cricket Association's Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) premises. The court revoked the licence suspension orders after the FDA withdrew its action and the eateries cleared all hurdles in a second or fresh inspection ordered by the court.

Initially, the FDA found hygiene, storage, and food-handling violations during its inspection on August 20. The court ordered a fresh inspection on August 25, permitting tea and coffee vending machines. However, the FDA's action was questioned as the issue of privity of contract between the MCA and food service provider Shirke Infrastructure was not fully addressed.

Acting Chief Justice Ravindra V Ghuge expressed frustration with the FDA officers, calling them tired of being scolded and suggesting they issue stringent orders. The court also suggested amending FDA rules to allow major eateries to have dedicated web pages for citizens to review food and hygiene conditions.