Story perspectives

Maharashtra bans Old Monk rum sales after rule violations

By Drooid · Oct 14, 2026, 4:11 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Food Safety and Standards Authority banned Old Monk rum sales in Maharashtra after inspection, prompting a Bombay High Court challenge.
Manufacturer says the ban caused over Rs 500 crore in losses.
Maharashtra State Excise Department reported about Rs 350 crore revenue loss from the restriction.
Regulator found the product used external rum flavouring without “flavoured rum” labeling, violating rules.
Senior Advocate Venkatesh Dhond said roughly 300 workers are idle at the Thane unit.

History

Historical Context

The Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006 merged seven earlier food laws and created the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, formally established on 5 September 2008 under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Building on that framework, Maharashtra’s recent ban on Old Monk rum, now before the Bombay High Court, reflects the authority’s long-standing power to enforce labeling standards.

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Story summary

Food Safety and Standards Authority banned Old Monk rum sales in Maharashtra after inspection, prompting a Bombay High Court challenge.
Manufacturer says the ban caused over Rs 500 crore in losses.
Maharashtra State Excise Department reported about Rs 350 crore revenue loss from the restriction.
Regulator found the product used external rum flavouring without “flavoured rum” labeling, violating rules.
Senior Advocate Venkatesh Dhond said roughly 300 workers are idle at the Thane unit.

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