Pune, 9th October 2026: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food safety licence of Maratha Caterers, which operated the girls’ hostel mess at Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), following an inspection that revealed serious hygiene violations. The action has led to the closure of the mess.
Students had repeatedly complained to the university administration about poor food quality, cockroaches and insects in meals and breakfast, and foreign objects such as safety pins and pins in the food. They also raised concerns about unhygienic conditions in the kitchen and food preparation areas. After receiving no satisfactory action, students approached the FDA directly.
Following the complaints, FDA officials inspected the university’s mess facilities and took action against Maratha Caterers, operated by Akash Mohite. The inspection of the girls’ hostel mess revealed live cockroaches in the kitchen and surrounding areas.
The places used for cooking and storing food were found to be extremely unhygienic and potentially hazardous to health. Officials also noted serious shortcomings in general cleanliness and the personal hygiene of kitchen staff. The caterer failed to produce the required food safety records and documents during the inspection.
Welcoming the FDA’s action and the decision to suspend the caterer’s licence, Abhishek Shelke, president of the University Student Struggle Action Committee, said the recurring complaints highlighted the need for a permanent solution.
He said the university administration must take responsibility for ensuring safe, hygienic and nutritious food for students. He also urged the university to take an immediate decision on establishing a centrally managed mess under its direct supervision.
The university administration’s response to the FDA action could not be obtained despite attempts to contact the concerned officials.
