Ex MLA refutes missing rice version
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, June 22 2017:
Ex MLA Konthoujam Sarat has alleged that the reports about missing rice quota of Konthoujam AC being slowly and gradually returned by some of the former agents is completely false and baseless .
Speaking to media persons at his residence at Konthoujam today, K Sarat said that he would gladly accept any form of punishment according to the law if any documents or written proof can be produced which show that the nominees and agents stole the rice meant for the people during his term as the MLA of the AC .
Accusing the present MLA and his workers of spreading false rumours to tarnish his reputation, Sarat demanded the responsible party to apologise through media or else face appropriate legal actions .
He clarified that NFSA rice quota of six to seven months had indeed been not cleared last year .
"Although NFSA was implemented from April 25 last year, the rice was supplied for Konthoujam AC in June.
The rice quota for the some months were not distributed due to certain inconveniences specially the issue of economic blockade, demonetisation and the 11 State Assembly election rush", he explained .
Sarat stated that when he was the MLA, there were no complaints regarding rice distribution and the issue skyrocketed only recently, and pointed out that there was even a recent case of some groups caught hoarding PDS rice at Mongshangei, after people got wind of the rice being transported during the night time .
Questioning how it is possible for the godown to be opened and the contents to be taken out during the night he asked if the people are satisfied with the clarification given by the storekeeper, a Grade III employee, alone .
Sarat alleged that it is critical to verify NFSA priority and AAP card holders at the earliest as there are numerous well off families and Government employees who possesses the cards as well and added that as long as the matter is not resolved, there always will be complaints and issues regarding NFSA rice distribution in the State .
He expressed desire for the authorities and officials concerned to perform their duties diligently and honestly and also conveyed desire for the Chief Minister to include streamlining the NFSA process in his 100 days programme.