Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced a one-year enforcement suspension for traders selling loose edible oil, providing relief after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cracked down on the practice. According to PTI, Fadnavis made the announcement on Tuesday after meeting with loose edible oil traders at Mantralaya. The Chief Minister emphasized that there would be no further extension after the one-year period, with compliance becoming mandatory thereafter. "Enforcement action against the sale of loose edible oil would be kept in abeyance for one year for the time being. However, there would be no further extension after this period, and compliance with the law would be mandatory," Fadnavis stated, as reported by PTI.
The enforcement action follows a crackdown led by FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, who had urged consumers last month to avoid buying loose or unsealed edible oil, warning of safety risks. As reported by PTI, the FDA had issued a compliance order after finding violations, including cases of adulteration. The dispute began with a practice that has been common in Maharashtra for years, with the Centre introducing rules regulating loose edible oil sales in 2011 over public health concerns. The Central Advisory Committee later issued directions for tighter implementation, followed by four notifications up to August 28, 2020.
Fadnavis has ordered the formation of two committees to help traders transition to legally compliant practices. According to PTI, one committee will examine problems faced by traders using traditional practices and suggest compliance solutions, while the second will examine facilities needed by sellers, manufacturers, and repackaging businesses. Both committees have been asked to consult traders and stakeholders and submit recommendations within one month. The government has indicated it will provide financial and logistical support, including grants or subsidies for quality-testing systems, packaging facilities, and infrastructure development.
Maharashtra currently has 2,103 licensed businesses dealing in loose edible oil, with 370 licensed for repackaging and 489 for production, as reported by PTI. Fadnavis acknowledged that loose oil remains a common choice, particularly in rural areas, while thousands of traders depend on the business for their livelihoods. "There is a demand for and a need for loose edible oil even in rural areas. At the same time, the livelihoods of many traders depend on this business. Therefore, it is necessary to find an appropriate balance between the law and the needs of ordinary citizens," he said, according to PTI. The government's approach aims to give traders time to move to legally compliant practices without forcing them out of business.
