The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has registered a case against 14 individuals, including five government officials and nine fair price shop dealers, for allegedly embezzling foodgrain worth Rs 5.57 crore in Kupwara district. The case was filed on July 6, 2026, following a preliminary inquiry that revealed systematic misappropriation of foodgrain meant for distribution under the public distribution system.
Details of the Embezzlement
According to the ACB, the accused officials and dealers conspired to divert foodgrain allocated for eligible beneficiaries to the black market. The embezzlement occurred over a period of several months, with the total value of the misappropriated grain amounting to Rs 5.57 crore. The five officials include a block supply officer and four assistant directors of the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs (FCSCA) department. The nine dealers operated fair price shops in various parts of Kupwara.
Impact on Beneficiaries
The diversion of foodgrain deprived thousands of eligible families of their entitled rations. Many beneficiaries reported not receiving their full quota of wheat, rice, and other essentials. The ACB's investigation was prompted by complaints from local residents and a subsequent audit that flagged discrepancies in distribution records.
"The accused have caused significant loss to the exchequer and deprived the poor of their rightful food security," said an ACB spokesperson. "We are committed to ensuring strict action against all those involved."
Legal Proceedings
The ACB has registered a case under various sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Essential Commodities Act. Searches were conducted at the residences and offices of the accused, leading to the seizure of documents and digital evidence. Further investigations are underway to trace the proceeds of the crime and identify any additional accomplices.
Government Response
The Jammu and Kashmir administration has assured strict action in the matter. The FCSCA department has suspended the five officials pending inquiry. The nine dealers have been barred from operating their fair price shops until further orders. The government has also announced a review of the public distribution system in Kupwara to prevent future occurrences.
