MUMBAI: Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) commissioner Tukaram Mundhe on Monday denied speculation about his transfer, saying he continues to head the department and its enforcement drive against unsafe food, adulterated products and substandard medicines will go on.The clarification came amid buzz about a possible transfer of the senior IAS officer, who has seen frequent transfers during his administrative career.The speculation gained traction after the state government named Mundhe secretary of a five-member committee set up to probe alleged paper leaks and irregularities in Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) examinations.“No, I have not been transferred from FDA,” Mundhe said in a post on X on Monday night.“I continue to serve as Commissioner, FDA Maharashtra. Our fight against unsafe, substandard, adulterated food and spurious, substandard drugs goes on,” he added.
Tukaram Mundhe’s FDA crackdown draws public attention
Mundhe’s tenure as FDA commissioner has attracted considerable attention, with consumers welcoming the department’s intensified action against food safety violations, even as sections of the restaurant and food business industry have opposed measures taken against their establishments.The FDA has stepped up inspections, raids and enforcement action against eateries and food businesses over alleged violations, including the sale or use of unsafe and adulterated products.It has also acted against establishments over licensing and compliance issues as part of its effort to enforce food safety regulations.While consumers have appreciated the emphasis on accountability and food safety, some restaurant operators have resisted the action. Certain enforcement measures have also been challenged in courts, bringing aspects of the FDA’s regulatory drive under legal scrutiny.The enforcement campaign has kept Mundhe’s tenure in the spotlight, with food safety compliance and the functioning of eateries receiving greater public attention.
Mundhe appointed secretary of MPSC paper leak inquiry panel
Mundhe’s appointment to the committee probing alleged paper leaks in MPSC examinations followed protests over the functioning of the state recruitment body.Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said last week that the five-member committee would examine the tenures of current and former chairpersons and members of the MPSC.The panel has been tasked with investigating allegations of paper leaks and irregularities in examinations conducted by the commission.(With PTI inputs)
