Decision to apply MCOCA to gutkha producers and sellers soon: Maharashtra Food and Drugs Administration Minister Narhari Zirwal

Zirwal thanked Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for supporting the department’s proposal by announcing that MCOCA action would be implemented. He added that the chief minister’s approval will strengthen the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Department in breaking this criminal network.

In the ongoing Winter Session of the Maharashtra Assembly in Nagpur, Chief Minister Fadnavis said the process is underway to bring in a stricter, special law to crack down on gutkha and narcotic substances, and make it more effective. He stated that a decision would be taken to implement action under the MCOCA.

A few days ago, Zirwal had announced that such a proposal would be sent to the Law and Judiciary Department.

The Opposition has alleged that gutkha and flavoured betel nut are illegally brought in large quantities from other states, and despite seizures and criminal action, the sale continues. They also said that despite the ban on gutkha and flavoured paan masala, they are brazenly sold in shops near schools and colleges.

In light of this, the Food and Drug Administration Department initiated the process to curb this criminal network by taking action under the MCOCA.