Many of us have heard about Tukaram Munde, the FDA Commissioner of Maharashtra. His recent action against restaurants, eateries, canteens and food brands across Mumbai has made him the talk of the town.
There are two things worth looking at here.
The first is the importance of what he is doing. These raids, suspensions, notices and warnings are reminding us of something we often take for granted: hygiene is not a luxury. There are rules designed to ensure that the food we eat is safe, clean and hygienic. When those rules are actually enforced, it creates awareness and, hopefully, some discipline.
The second is the person enforcing them.
Tukaram Munde has spent much of his 21 year career doing exactly this. He has had 20 transfers in those 21 years. His reputation for integrity and an uncompromising approach to his work gives his current action considerable credibility. This is not something he has suddenly discovered.
We are sure Munde also understands that his tenure will eventually end and many things may return to the way they were. Yet he continues to do what he believes is his job. And perhaps that is the point he wants to make.
But there is another side to this story.
If the government expects restaurants to follow every rule, is the government doing enough to make it possible for them to run their businesses honestly?
Restaurateurs deal with taxes, licences, inspections, permissions and endless compliance. Many also complain about demands for bribes from different arms of the system and, in some places, from criminal elements. Running a restaurant is not easy.
The government cannot simply demand compliance. It also has a responsibility to create an environment in which restaurants can survive, make money and comply with those standards.
Otherwise, the costs will eventually be passed on to you and me.
So yes, Tukaram Munde is doing his part.
Perhaps it is time for the government and the administration to do theirs too.
Compliance cannot be one sided.
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