Uttarakhand: Kumaon food controller dismissed over PDS scam worth 600 crores

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DEHRADUN: A scam worth Rs 600 crore was detected in the public distribution system of Uttarakhand by the special investigation team (SIT), which led to the dismissal of the regional food controller in Kumaon division of the state.

According to a release, preliminary investigations by the SIT, headed by Udhamsingh Nagar District Magistrate Niraj Khairwal, revealed large-scale financial irregularities and other anomalies at public distribution system (PDS) godowns located in Kumaon region.

This led to the issuance of dismissal order of Vishnu Singh Dhanik (regional food controller) late on Monday night.

Dhanik was given two extensions by the previous Harish Rawat-led Congress government in the state. Anomalies worth over Rs 600 crore were detected during a documentary verification that was conducted at the PDS godowns in Rudrapur, Kashipur and Bajpur by the SIT.

Workers, representatives of farmers and representatives of rice-millers were also investigated.

The investigation was carried out on the basis of five points:

Firstly, on the involvement of Government officers` and workers` in the distribution of rice bought from the rice-millers.

Secondly, whether different rules and regulations were followed regarding the involvement of officers and workers` in the distribution of rice.

Thirdly, the conditions of the police`s involvement in the process.

Fourthly, whether details of harm done to the government`s reputation and details of the officers and workers` held accountable.

Lastly, suggestions so that nothing of this sort happens in the future.

The Principal secretary and commissioner Food and Civil Supplies has been asked to take stern action against all other officials and employees involved in the scam, which took place over the last two years.

Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat warned that the people found guilty will not be spared, irrespective of the political parties they belong to. He also stated that an FIR will be filed against those leaders if needed. After receiving a number of complaints about the beneficiaries either not getting subsidised food grains or being served poor quality of grains under the PDS arrangement, Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat had constituted the SIT on August 2.