Daijiworld Media Network - Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Aug 29: An unusual confrontation unfolded in Maharashtra's Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar after an angry crowd allegedly hurled packets of expired biscuits at a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officer during an inspection of a local paan shop.

The officer was allegedly accused of accepting a bribe to protect the shopkeeper, who was reportedly selling expired food products. Amid the confrontation, some members of the crowd allegedly attempted to force expired biscuits into the officer's mouth, while others shouted, "Eat them yourself."

The incident reportedly followed allegations that a two-year-old child fell ill and experienced dizziness after consuming a savoury snack mix purchased from the shop.

After the child's condition deteriorated, he was taken to a hospital for treatment. The incident angered local residents, who contacted the FDA office and lodged a complaint.

An FDA officer subsequently reached the shop and began an inspection. However, residents alleged that the snack mix suspected of causing the child's illness had been removed from the premises before the inspection.

During the inspection, the officer reportedly found several packets of expired biscuits allegedly being offered for sale. The packets were seized by the authorities.

Residents, however, alleged that no action was taken against the shopkeeper and accused the officer of attempting to settle the matter by accepting a bribe. The allegations led to the heated confrontation between the officer and the crowd.

The incident comes amid a wider crackdown by Maharashtra's FDA against food safety violations across the state. Authorities have in recent weeks conducted inspections and issued notices to food businesses over alleged food adulteration, sale of expired products and other violations.

The allegations of bribery and the circumstances surrounding the inspection are subject to investigation.