FDA Staff Complain Over Extended Hours Under Commissioner Mundhe

Employees at Maharashtra’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) laboratory in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar have raised concerns about new work conditions. A formal complaint was filed against Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe’s management approach, which mandates extended hours and weekend shifts.

Key Details of the Complaint

• 29 employees from the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar FDA laboratory filed a written complaint.
• The complaint was sent on July 15.
• Allegations include working from 9 a.m. to midnight.

The core of the issue stems from Commissioner Mundhe’s implementation of a two-shift system, alongside mandatory work on weekends and public holidays. This change has reportedly led to significant challenges for the staff.

Workload and Quality Concerns

Employees state that the extended working hours, combined with existing staff vacancies, have dramatically increased their workload. This situation has also sparked worries about the quality of testing, fearing that rushed sample clearance could compromise accuracy.

• Expanded laboratory capacity, equipment, and staffing are demanded before any two-shift system.
• Restoration of previous office timings is a key request.
• Appropriate allowances for extra hours are also being sought.
• An assurance against rushed sample analysis is crucial for staff.

Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe is known for his strict administrative style, which has previously led to controversies. Past enforcement actions at the FDA have even faced scrutiny from the Bombay High Court.

As of now, neither the FDA nor Minister Zirwal have publicly responded to the complaint. This leaves many employees uncertain about how these concerns regarding their working conditions and the potential impact on public health standards will be addressed.