28 April,2026 09:34 PM IST | Mumbai | Abhitash Singh
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In one of the most aggressive enforcement drives in recent months, the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has intensified its action against the gutkha mafia. In an operation spanning the first three weeks of April, the agency seized prohibited scented tobacco and pan masala worth a staggering Rs 1,74,24,922.
The crackdown targeted the illegal manufacturing, storage, and distribution of these health-hazardous substances, with officials raiding 143 locations across the state. The FDA's message was clear: health over profit.
Between April 1 and April 19, 2026, acting on high-level confidential intelligence, FDA teams conducted coordinated raids across Maharashtra. The operation resulted in the seizure of large quantities of "khara," "mawa," and scented betel nut - items banned in the state since July 2012.
The enforcement drive focused not only on seizures but also on accountability. A total of 130 FIRs were registered at various police stations, and 145 individuals involved in the illicit trade were arrested.
Although flavoured tobacco and gutkha have been banned in Maharashtra since 2012, with stricter enforcement measures introduced in 2015, the illegal trade continues to pose a significant challenge for authorities.
The operation was spearheaded by FDA Commissioner Sridhar Dube-Patil, along with Minister Narhari Zirwal and Secretary Dheeraj Kumar.
The FDA is now urging citizens to assist in the crackdown. Joint Commissioner (Food), Brihanmumbai, Mahesh Chaudhary, appealed to Mumbaikars to stay away from these "deadly addictions."
Citizens can report the production or sale of banned gutkha through the toll-free helpline: 1800-222-365.
As the FDA tightens enforcement, the focus remains on dismantling the supply chains that continue to fuel Maharashtra's illegal tobacco market.
