Shinde Calls for MCOCA Charges Against Food Adulterators in Maharashtra
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has suggested that authorities invoke the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against those involved in adulterating milk, paneer, and other food products. Speaking during a meeting held at Sahyadri Guest House, Shinde warned that food adulteration activities pose a serious threat to public health, particularly affecting children, and instructed officials to take strict action against offenders without showing any leniency.
The Deputy Chief Minister issued these directive suggestions during a progress review meeting regarding departmental targets set under the ‘Developed Maharashtra 2047’ initiative for 2026-27. The critical issue of food adulteration was formally brought up during a presentation conducted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Addressing the meeting, Shinde asserted that food adulteration should not be treated as an ordinary offence because it directly endangers the lives of citizens. Expressing deep concern over children consuming milk, he pointed out that adulterated food products, including fake paneer, could expose citizens to severe health problems.
To establish a strong legal deterrent against offenders, Shinde directed authorities to take stern measures and register cases under MCOCA. He also called for non-bailable offences to be registered against such offenders, emphasizing that bad actors must be prevented from exploiting legal loopholes in the system.
In addition to invoking MCOCA, the Deputy Chief Minister stressed the critical need to strengthen the legal prosecution process in all food adulteration cases. He directed authorities to ensure that cases do not suffer or collapse due to procedural errors or legal shortcomings once they reach the courts.
To ensure that cases are prosecuted effectively, Shinde ordered the immediate formation of a special legal team made up of senior and experienced legal experts. This dedicated legal team will assist authorities in prosecuting food adulteration cases, with Shinde stating that all necessary legal steps must be taken to ensure offenders face stringent action.
