The Bombay High Court has issued a stern rebuke to the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The court questioned the aggressive enforcement style of Food Safety Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe. The bench sharply asked regulators: “Do you feel you are a Lord?” The judicial warning came during a hearing on the arbitrary suspension of food licenses. The FDA had shut down five restaurants at the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) BKC complex.
Scathing Judicial Rebuke and Contempt Warning
The High Court expressed deep frustration with the department’s unbending approach. The judges warned of direct contempt action against errant officials.
The bench remarked that officers must convince the court or face jail time.
The court noted that regulators took a pedantic view instead of acting pragmatically. The judges stressed that regulatory authority must follow due process and fairness.
MCA BKC Restaurants Allowed to Reopen After 88% Compliance
The dispute arose after FDA inspectors suspended licenses of five popular MCA eateries. However, a fresh official inspection found the kitchens 88% compliant with safety standards.
Despite this high rating, the department maintained its ban over third-party contract technicalities.
The High Court set aside the suspension order immediately. The bench permitted all five restaurants to resume operations without delay.
Pattern of High-Handed Actions Under Judicial Scanner
This ruling marks the latest judicial reprimand against recent FDA crackdowns. Earlier this month, the High Court imposed a ₹5 lakh fine on the FDA. Regulators had refused to restore a Pune sweet shop’s license despite 98% compliance.
The court warned the department against shooting first and asking questions later. Judges reiterated that food safety laws exist to protect citizens, not harass compliant businesses.
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