Massive Food Safety Raids on Two Major Resorts in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve; Shocking Violations Unearthed, Notices Issued

In the wake of the recent food poisoning incident reported at a Khajuraho resort, the Food Safety Department has tightened its vigilance across high-tourism zones. In a major action on Thursday, flying squads from Rewa and Shahdol conducted surprise raids at two prominent resorts operating inside the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. The inspections revealed alarming levels of negligence and unhygienic conditions, leaving officials stunned. Formal notices have been issued to both establishments.

Unlicensed Bread Production at Taj Safari

During the inspection at Taj Safari Resort, officials discovered that bread was being manufactured on the premises without obtaining the mandatory production license. Additionally, the resort’s bar was found storing and serving alcoholic beverages without the required authorization under its food license conditions. The team seized five food samples and immediately ordered the bar operations to be shut down.

Misbranded Ingredients Found

Investigators also found misbranded porridge being used in food preparation, a clear violation of food safety norms. The resort was reportedly operating beyond the scope of its approved license category, prompting the department to initiate corrective action.

Rotten Vegetables, Infested Flour at Monsoon Forest Resort

Conditions at Monsoon Forest Resort were even more distressing. The team found rotting vegetables, insect-infested flour, and expired maida being used in meal preparation. In a major breach of food safety standards, vegetarian and non-vegetarian items were stored together, raising concerns about cross-contamination.

Kitchen in Filthy Condition

The kitchen area was found in an extremely unhygienic state, with widespread filth and staff failing to follow even basic cleanliness protocols. Citing these serious violations, the team issued a notice recommending suspension of the resort’s food license. The recommendation has been forwarded to the district administration for action.

Wider Crackdown Expected Across Tiger Reserves

Following the Bandhavgarh raids, panic has spread across the tourism industry. Mandla district administration has already formed special inspection teams to check hotels, resorts, and restaurants in the Kanha Tiger Reserve area. Officials have made it clear that during the peak tourism season, no compromise on food safety will be tolerated and more such raids will follow.

Despite uncovering irregularities at two major establishments, officials acknowledge that dozens of resorts across the region may be operating under similar unsafe conditions. Food safety enforcement teams are expected to expand their inspections to district headquarters as well, where several high-end hotels and sweet shops are suspected to be violating norms.