Tukaram Mundhe-Led Maharashtra FDA Shuts 2 IIT Bombay Canteens; Here's Why
Maharashtra FDA shut down two IIT Bombay canteens (Hostel 1 and 3) for operating without FSSAI licences. An improvement notice was issued for Hostels 12, 13, and 14 mess facilities. The action is part of a statewide food safety crackdown led by FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe. Scroll below to know more about the incident.
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has shut down two canteens on the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT-B) campus for operating without mandatory Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) licences, marking the latest step in the state's expanding public health enforcement drive.
The action was taken during an inspection of hostel mess facilities on the campus, reports NDTV Profit. Under the supervision of FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, the state regulatory body has intensified surprise checks across educational institutions, restaurants, and catering establishments to enforce food safety protocols. Why Is Maharashtra FDA Targeting Restaurants? Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe Explains.
Hostel Canteens Targeted for Missing Licences
During the campus sweep, officials found that the canteens serving Hostel 1 and Hostel 3 were operating without valid FSSAI registrations. Under India's food safety laws, running an establishment without the prescribed licence constitutes a direct violation and immediately triggers regulatory action. Consequently, authorities ordered both canteens to cease operations immediately. In addition to the shutdowns, the FDA issued an improvement notice to the catering service managing mess facilities for Hostels 12, 13, and 14. While this operator held a valid state licence, inspectors flagged notable deficiencies in hygiene and safety standards, directing them to implement corrective measures. IIT Bombay Student Found Dead in Hostel Room, Police Probe Family and Personal Issues.
Broader Statewide Enforcement Drive
The inspections at IIT Bombay form part of a broader, aggressive campaign spearheaded by FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe across Maharashtra. The state regulator has increasingly targeted hotels, cloud kitchens, and institutional food providers to ensure strict compliance with licensing norms. By focusing heavily on spaces catering to large student and resident populations, the FDA aims to eliminate public health risks and enforce accountability across the food service sector. State officials have indicated that these surprise inspections will continue across Maharashtra.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 07, 2026 10:47 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
