Firebrand Tukaram Mundhe’s Food Safety Blitz Hits ISKCON Juhu, 3 Licences Suspended

This time, his Maharashtra FDA has turned its spotlight on ISKCON’s Hare Krishna Land in Juhu, suspending the licences of three food establishments over what officials described as serious violations of food safety and hygiene norms.

The action was taken as part of a crackdown on eateries over compliance with food safety norms.

The crackdown came under Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, who has been leading an aggressive food-safety crackdown across Mumbai and Maharashtra.

His wider crackdown has involved inspections and action against restaurants, food suppliers and other establishments for alleged food-safety violations.

Three ISKCON restaurants face FDA action

The three restaurants are located at Hare Krishna Land in Juhu and include Govinda's Restaurant, Food Services Restaurant and another ISKCON eatery.

The FDA inspection was conducted on September 3.

FDA finds hygiene violations at Govinda's

At Govinda's Restaurant, the FDA team reportedly found several deficiencies, including:

• Periodic testing of drinking water had not been conducted.
• Raw materials were not properly cleaned.
• Water had accumulated in the cold storage room.
• Drains were found to be choked.

At another restaurant, the FDA team reportedly found "serious deficiencies" related to food safety, sanitation, pest control, personal hygiene, equipment maintenance, staff training and record management.

ISKCON Juhu says corrective measures underway

ISKCON Juhu said its compliance level was assessed at 70% and that it has initiated corrective measures in consultation with the FDA.

The organisation said its kitchen operations will remain closed until the necessary measures are completed and full compliance is achieved.

In a statement quoted by The Times of India, ISKCON Juhu said, "We have received a notice from FDA following an inspection of our kitchen and food operations conducted on Sept 3. Following the inspection, the FDA assessed the current level of compliance at 70% and identified certain areas requiring corrective action."

"Our representatives are in communication with the FDA, and, in accordance with its guidance, we have already initiated necessary measures to achieve full compliance with all applicable food safety and regulatory standards.

"The safety, hygiene and well-being of our devotees, guests remain our highest priority. Until the necessary corrective measures are completed and full compliance is achieved, kitchen operations at ISKCON Juhu will remain closed."