Mumbai: Maharashtra’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is facing scrutiny over alleged corruption and procedural lapses, with five Nashik division officials suspended in connection with a betel nut seizure case and around 20 officers reportedly under the scanner for alleged misconduct during food safety inspections.

FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe is planning action against officials accused of colluding with eateries and other food businesses during surprise inspections, according to media reports. Officers from the Bhiwandi and Nashik regions could face disciplinary action over allegations that they accepted bribes from food outlet operators.

Separately, five Nashik FDA officials were suspended following alleged irregularities in the seizure and disposal of betel nuts in Malegaon. The action was ordered by Minister Narhari Zirwal and Mundhe after questions emerged over procedural compliance, documentation and disposal records.

The case dates back to February 11, 2024, when FDA officials seized 252.328 metric tonnes of betel nuts packed in 3,605 sacks in Malegaon. The stock was valued at approximately Rs 10 crore. Laboratory tests reportedly found the material unfit for human consumption, following which a court ordered its destruction.

However, questions were subsequently raised over whether the entire consignment had been destroyed. Reports cited discrepancies in disposal documents, including details of vehicles and witnesses. Nearly 11 trucks were reportedly used to dispose of the stock in a single day.

The suspended officials are Avinash Dabhade, Amit Raskar, Gopal Kasar, Yogesh Deshmukh and Suvarna Mahajan, all associated with food safety duties in the Nashik division. The allegations against the officials remain subject to the relevant inquiry.