Tukaram Mundhe: 'We are not going overboard. We are following the due process' - India Today
In an interview with Rajdeep Sardesai, Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe addressed his statewide crackdown on adulterated food and pharmaceutical drugs. Responding to criticisms and judicial observations regarding stringent enforcement, Mundhe defended his approach, asserting, "We are not going overboard. We are following the due process." He explained that out of 12,000 inspections, around 5,000 establishments received improvement notices, with suspensions executed only where public health faced immediate risks. Mundhe highlighted that safe food and drug compliance are vital for public well-being and economic productivity, citing significant historical GDP losses linked to foodborne diseases. He clarified that the drive applies equally to street food vendors and established restaurants. Addressing questions regarding his multiple administrative transfers and public reputation, Mundhe stated that postings remain the prerogative of the government, maintaining that he operates strictly as a committed public servant upholding statutory mandates.