Indian food-safety official draws praise and criticism over inspections

Since taking charge of Maharashtra’s Food and Drug Administration in May, Tukaram Mundhe has led inspections of restaurants and other food businesses that found pest infestations, poor hygiene and expired food. Videos and images of the inspections have spread online, with hundreds of commenters saying they want similar action on food safety in their own states. Mundhe has also drawn attention to gaps between what hospitals pay for common medical supplies and what they charge patients. [1]

The enforcement drives have drawn criticism from sections of the food and hospitality industry. Mundhe rejects allegations that his actions are selective or unlawful. He says the inspections are driven by evidence and public-health concerns, and that licences are suspended only in serious cases. [1]

The attention extends beyond Maharashtra. RS Batth, a district town planner in Gurugram, has been praised for acting against illegal construction and encroachments. Critics allege that his enforcement is selective and disproportionately affects vulnerable people; Batth has said in videos that he acts under town-planning rules. [1]