FSSAI Chief Backs Tukaram Mundhe’s Food Safety Drive, Says Post Is Not A ‘Punishment Posting’
FSSAI CEO Rajit Punhani praised Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe’s enforcement campaign, saying stronger leadership can improve food safety without necessarily requiring additional manpower.
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) CEO Rajit Punhani has backed Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe’s aggressive enforcement campaign, saying the officer’s work demonstrates how effective action can be taken with existing resources.
In an interview with India Today TV, Punhani praised Mundhe’s efforts across Maharashtra and said the crackdown reflected the principle that determination can deliver results even without additional manpower.
Mundhe’s department has intensified inspections of restaurants, food businesses, warehouses and other establishments suspected of violating food safety regulations. The Maharashtra FDA has reported thousands of inspections and numerous licence suspensions during the ongoing enforcement campaign.
‘Food Safety Posting Should Not Be Seen As Punishment’
Punhani also challenged the longstanding perception within the bureaucracy that being appointed as a food safety commissioner amounts to a “punishment posting”.
He said food safety departments have historically received less attention than the broader health administration, resulting in several officers being given the responsibility as an additional charge rather than holding dedicated positions.
According to Punhani, every state should have a full-time food safety commissioner rather than assigning the responsibility as an additional portfolio. He argued that the growing importance of food safety makes dedicated leadership essential.
FSSAI Chief Praises Mundhe’s Work
Speaking about Mundhe’s enforcement campaign, Punhani said he was pleased with the Maharashtra FDA chief’s performance, particularly because the drive was conducted without an expansion in the department’s workforce.
He said the campaign showed that effective enforcement could be achieved with the existing number of food safety officers when there is sufficient intent and leadership.
Punhani added that the action in Maharashtra has also increased public awareness about food safety authorities and their responsibilities.
Court Criticism Of Maharashtra FDA
The FSSAI chief’s comments come amid criticism of some of the Maharashtra FDA’s enforcement actions in court.
The Bombay High Court recently questioned the manner in which certain establishments were dealt with under Mundhe’s leadership. The court criticised what it considered disproportionate regulatory action and raised concerns over haste and strict enforcement without adequate adherence to due process.
Despite the judicial criticism, the central food regulator has publicly supported the broader enforcement push, highlighting the need for stronger and more accountable food safety administration across states.