Health Inspectors Shocked as Restaurant Owner Claims Rats in Kitchen are "Pets" in Madhya Pradesh

Food inspectors in Madhya Pradesh encountered a disturbing scene during a routine check: insects swimming in buttermilk, rats freely roaming the kitchen area, and flies hovering over exposed food. When confronted about these unhygienic conditions, the restaurant owner provided an astonishing response: "These are our pets."

The incident occurred when a Food Department team conducted a raid at Rashi Restaurant, situated across from the Bundelkhand Medical College and Hospital in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh. Upon entering the establishment, officials were immediately struck by an overwhelming stench and deplorable kitchen conditions.

Inspectors documented numerous health violations, including insects, flies, and rats inhabiting the food preparation areas. The kitchen walls were visibly greasy and unclean, creating an environment wholly unsuitable for food service.

The conditions were so appalling that even experienced food safety officials were taken aback by the level of filth and contamination present throughout the facility.

When Food Inspector Preeti Rai questioned the proprietor about the rodent infestation, he remarkably claimed: "Madam, these rats are our pets."

The investigation further revealed unauthorized use of domestic gas cylinders on the premises. When questioned about this violation, the owner stated: "This is a domestic cylinder; I brought it in for refilling."

Officials collected multiple food samples for laboratory analysis and ordered the immediate closure of the restaurant. The authorities have indicated that severe legal action will follow once test results are available. The restaurant owner has been given a seven-day deadline to address all sanitation issues.

This enforcement action has created considerable anxiety among other food establishment owners in the city. The Food Department has issued warnings about upcoming inspections at additional locations and emphasized that establishments failing to comply with hygiene regulations risk license cancellation.