Bombay HC Orders Fresh FDA Inspection at MCA Club, Permits Vending Machine Tea
The Bombay High Court on Tuesday questioned the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) over its inspection process and ordered a fresh inspection of the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) club premises in Mumbai on August 27.
The court also allowed tea and coffee to be served through vending machines at the premier club as a temporary arrangement.
The FDA had earlier suspended the food licences of restaurants operating at the MCA club following an inspection conducted on August 21. Challenging the suspension as arbitrary, the MCA and the restaurant operator moved the High Court for relief.
During the hearing, senior counsel Vikram Nankani, appearing for the MCA, argued that the licence suspension was unwarranted and noted that tournaments were currently underway at the club. Senior counsel Vineet Naik, representing the restaurant operator, supported the challenge against the FDA's action.
A bench led by Acting Chief Justice R V Ghuge acknowledged the efforts of FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe to address hygiene lapses across establishments, but stressed the need for consistency in the regulatory process.
"The FDA is doing a good job," the Acting Chief Justice orally observed, while adding, "Do it consistently and not in an ad hoc manner."
The bench also questioned the FDA, represented by advocate PP Kakade, regarding the methodology used during the inspection before directing the fresh review of the club premises.
