Social media users praise Maharashtra official Tukaram Mundhe's food inspections, which stand out amid familiar bureaucratic delays. But his enforcement drives have also drawn industry criticism, highlighting tension over how rules are applied.
Mundhe is commissioner of Maharashtra's Food and Drug Administration and has led inspection drives since taking charge in May. His teams found pest infestations, poor hygiene and expired food at restaurants and other food businesses; he has also highlighted gaps between hospitals' costs for common supplies and what patients pay.
Some in the food and hospitality industry have alleged that Mundhe's drives are selective or unlawful; he rejects that charge, saying inspections are evidence-driven and licences are suspended only in serious cases. Social media can make a local official a national talking point within hours, Pushpa Sundar says. Retired civil servant Kamal Kant Jaswal notes that an unauthorised street vendor's stall may be a family's only income, while unsanctioned housing may be the only option for people moving to cities for work. Sundar also says officers may face political pressure and transfers if they refuse demands.
