CM Flying Squad Initiates Inquiry After Complaints of Substandard Wheat
The Haryana Chief Minister's flying squad has launched an investigation into the supply of poor-quality wheat at government ration depots in Sirsa, following complaints from below poverty line (BPL) families. Beneficiaries alleged that the wheat distributed through the Public Distribution System (PDS) in Wards 20 and 21 was unfit for consumption, containing foreign matter and failing to meet prescribed quality standards. They demanded a scientific examination of the stock and suspension of its distribution until the probe is completed.
Three-Member Committee Constituted to Probe Lapses
District Food and Supplies Controller Harveer Singh confirmed that during an inspection by the CM flying squad and the Food and Supplies Inspector, Sirsa, traces of soil and gravel were found in the wheat. Samples have been collected and sent for testing. A three-member committee has been tasked with examining the quality of wheat released under the July and August PDS allocation and submitting its report within three days. The committee will investigate any lapses in procurement, storage, transportation, or distribution that led to the substandard grain reaching ration depots.
Beneficiaries Demand Immediate Action
Amit Soni, a local resident who filed the complaint, demanded that the disputed stock be immediately withdrawn and replaced with good-quality wheat if it fails the quality test. He also called for a fair and transparent inquiry and strict action against any officials or agencies found responsible for negligence. BPL families, who rely on government-supplied ration as their primary source of food, warned that the distribution of substandard wheat could affect their health and food security. They urged the government to strengthen quality checks before foodgrains are supplied through the PDS to prevent similar incidents in future.
Distribution Halted at Affected Depot
Residents questioned why the wheat continued to be distributed even after the inquiry had begun. However, sources confirmed that the supply of wheat to the affected ration depot has now been stopped until further orders. A CM flying squad official said the investigation is under way and the committee’s report will be submitted soon. The district food and supplies controller assured that strict action will be taken against those found responsible for the lapse.
