HC raps FDA over clean chit to Mantralaya, Vidhan Bhavan canteens

The Bombay High Court questioned the Maharashtra FDA over its report certifying staff canteens at Mantralaya and Vidhan Bhavan as 98% compliant despite photographs showing unhygienic conditions.

The court asked why private eateries like Park Inn by Radisson hotel and Poornima restaurant faced immediate licence suspensions, while government-run canteens did not.

The petitioners argued that the FDA suspended their licences without issuing a 14-day improvement notice as required by the Food Safety and Standards Act.

The court appointed four advocates to inspect the Mantralaya and Vidhan Bhavan canteens, who reported unhygienic conditions.