Bhikangaon (Madhya Pradesh): A case involving the siphoning of grain was recently uncovered in government fair price shop in Bhikangaon, involving seller Parasram Yadav and manager Kamal Yadav, who have been found guilty of misappropriating food grains.
An investigation by the administration revealed that thousands of kg of wheat, rice and salt totalling Rs 7.82 lakh were siphoned off. This scam, primarily affecting urban areas, has raised concerns about the situation in rural regions.
The investigation found that the grain stock recorded on paper was not distributed to beneficiaries. Several families complained about not receiving their full ration for months. Following these complaints, a joint investigation was conducted on January 7 by the assistant supply officer and cooperative extension officer.
During the investigation, it was discovered that 2,524 kg of rice was missing under the Public Distribution System (PDS) and the vendor could not provide a satisfactory explanation for this shortage. The most significant irregularities were found at two government hostels under Kalyankari Yojana, where 5,940 kg of wheat and 1,485 kg of rice were reported missing. Both hostel superintendents confirmed they had never received these supplies. Additionally, 1.24 kg of wheat and 2.56 kg of rice meant for Anganwadis under the ICDS scheme were also unaccounted for.
In total, the investigation revealed that 5,061 kg of wheat, 7,138 kg of rice and 109 kg of salt were embezzled, amounting to Rs 7.82 lakh.
Parasram Yadav admitted his mistake and agreed to pay a fine, while Kamal Yadav claimed that the grain distribution was done offline, contradicting the statements of hostel officials.
In response, SDM Akanksha Agarwal ordered the removal of the vendor and the recovery of the embezzled amount. Civil Supply Officer Rajendra Solanki stated that this case falls under the Essential Commodities Act and the PDS Control Order. Following these events, Anil Sirsat was appointed as new vendor to ensure proper management of the fair price shop.
