Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut accuses Maharashtra FDA of extortion racket in letter to official

Sanjay Raut, a senior Shiv Sena parliamentarian, addressed a written complaint to Tukaram Mundhe, alleging that a systematic extortion network operates within the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Raut claims that certain officials are coercing pharmaceutical companies and other stakeholders for illicit payments, thereby compromising the regulator's integrity.

The allegation was first reported by the Mid-Day newspaper, which obtained a copy of the letter. Raut did not disclose the names of the officials involved but said the racket has been ongoing for a considerable period, affecting the fair functioning of the state drug regulator.

State authorities have not yet responded to the claims, and no formal investigation has been announced. The Maharashtra government, however, has pledged to look into any wrongdoing that undermines public health safety.

If verified, the accusations could trigger a probe by the state's anti-corruption agencies and lead to administrative reforms within the FDA to restore confidence among industry players and consumers.