The Bombay High Court has suggested that major restaurants and eateries across Maharashtra maintain dedicated websites or social media handles to facilitate public feedback regarding food hygiene, quality, and taste. The observation was made during the hearing of a petition involving the suspension of food business licenses of five eateries operating at the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) premises.
A Division Bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Ravindra V. Ghuge and Justice Gautam A. Ankhad was hearing the matter when it proposed a citizen-driven feedback mechanism that could complement the regulatory efforts of the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The Court observed that large eateries could create dedicated online platforms where customers may post reviews relating to hygiene standards, food quality, and overall dining experiences. Drawing parallels with review systems commonly used in the tourism and hospitality sectors, the Bench noted that such mechanisms could enhance transparency and assist authorities in monitoring food safety compliance.
Acting Chief Justice Ghuge remarked that major eateries should maintain web pages where citizens can upload feedback about hygiene, food quality, and taste. During the proceedings, Senior Advocate Venkatesh Dhond, appearing for the Mumbai Cricket Association, highlighted that social media platforms such as Instagram are increasingly more popular than traditional websites for public engagement.
Taking note of the submission, the Court suggested that the FDA consider amending its regulatory framework to incorporate mechanisms allowing public feedback through websites and social media channels. The Bench clarified that the proposal was intended for major restaurants and eateries and not for small food vendors.
The observations came in the context of proceedings concerning the suspension of licenses of five MCA eateries. Following intervention by the High Court and a fresh inspection, the Maharashtra FDA agreed to revoke the suspension orders and permit the establishments to resume operations.
The Court's suggestion reflects a growing judicial focus on consumer participation, transparency, and accountability in food safety governance. If implemented, the proposal could create an additional layer of public oversight alongside statutory inspections conducted by food safety authorities.