PMGKAY rice row: RTI activist demands action
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, May 30 2021: RTI activist Joykumar Wahengbam has appealed to the authority concerned of the state government to take actions against MLAs, their nominees and Fair Price Shops (FPS) agents over the reports of distributing lesser quantity of rice under PMGKAY.

He submitted a memorandum to the chief minister, CAF&PD minister and other authorities concerned by e-mail through the Human Rights Law Network (HRLN).

In his memorandum, Joykumar mentioned that the central government released 93007.95 quintal of rice for distribution at the rate of 5 kg per head to NFSA beneficiaries free of cost for the month of May and June under PMGKAY.

CAF&PD director issued district-wise allocation and informed transport contractors to lift the allocation for distribution to the beneficiaries within seven days.

In the order, the director also instructed DSOs and civil supply inspectors to conduct regular field inspection to ensure that there is no discrepancy in the distribution process and to submit daily report.

As per NFSA guidelines, MLAs have no authority in the distribution of NFSA benefits.

However, MLAs are heavily involved in the process through their nominees.

At the same time, FPS agents distribute only 3 to 4 kg per head and many use tins instead of weighing standard equipment.

When enquired, the FPS agents contended that they were told to distribute only 3 or 4 kg per head by the MLA/nominees, the memorandum said and added that such agents are liable to face legal actions under IPC Section 409 .

It also said that MLAs can always distribute rice to non-beneficiaries from their own pocket but cannot interfere in the PMGKAY allocation.

The memorandum then appealed to the authority concerned to take up appropriate actions against such MLAs, their nominees and FPS agents.

It also urged the government to ensure that all the beneficiaries get their full share of the benefit.

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