Madhya Pradesh restaurant sealed after rats, insects found in kitchen. Owner calls them 'pets'

Following the inspection, food samples were collected for laboratory testing. (Representative Image)

Food safety officials in Madhya Pradesh were met with appalling conditions during an inspection at a restaurant in Sagar district, where insects were found in buttermilk, flies swarmed around uncovered food, and rats roamed freely in the kitchen.

According to a report by NDTV, the inspection was conducted at Rashi Restaurant, located opposite Bundelkhand Medical College and Hospital. A team from the state Food Department entered the premises to assess hygiene standards and was immediately overwhelmed by the stench and visible filth inside.

Food Inspector Preeti Rai, who led the team, reported that the kitchen walls were coated in grease, while rats, flies, and insects were seen moving freely across the space. Containers of food were left uncovered and exposed, and sanitation levels were described as “extremely poor.”

When questioned about the presence of rats in the kitchen, the restaurant owner allegedly gave a startling response. “Madam, these rats are our pets,” he told officials.

The inspection also revealed the use of domestic gas cylinders for commercial cooking, which violates safety regulations. When confronted about the unauthorised use, the owner stated, “This is a domestic cylinder; I brought it in for refilling.”

Following the inspection, food samples were collected for laboratory testing. Authorities sealed the restaurant premises and issued a directive for the owner to rectify all violations within seven days. Officials stated that legal action would follow once the test results were confirmed.

The discovery has triggered concern among local restaurant and hotel operators, many of whom have expressed anxiety about upcoming inspections. The Food Department has warned that it will extend checks across other establishments in the city and revoke licences where hygiene standards are not met.

An official from the department said the operation was part of a wider drive to ensure food safety compliance. “Cleanliness in public eating spaces cannot be compromised. Those violating hygiene standards will face strict action,” the officer added.

The incident has drawn sharp public reaction online, with many residents questioning how such establishments continued to operate in close proximity to a major hospital.