The Food Department in Indore has initiated strong legal action against an alleged racket involved in the illegal trade of fortified rice meant for the Public Distribution System (PDS). Officials have registered a First Information Report (FIR) at the Gandhi Nagar police station targeting four individuals for unauthorized purchase, storage, and sale of the essential commodity.
FIR Names Four Accused in Grain Racket
According to an official release, the FIR has been filed against Rajesh Verma, Sonu Rajput, Murtaza Khan, and Hemraj Yadav. The investigation points to a coordinated operation where the accused allegedly stored and sold grains without holding any valid documentation or bills.
Probes revealed that Hemraj Yadav had long-term involvement in these illegal activities. He frequently changed storage locations to avoid getting caught by the authorities. The department's vigilance led them to an unauthorized storage facility in the Jamburi Hapsi area of Arihant Nagar.
Warehouse Raid Uncovers Illegal Stock
During a surprise inspection, officials raided a warehouse managed by Rajesh Verma and Sonu Rajput. The raid yielded a significant illegal stockpile. Officials found 101 sacks of rice, suspected to be fortified rice from the PDS, and 127 sacks of wheat. None of the stock had the necessary bills or paperwork to prove legitimate procurement.
In a simultaneous operation, the department intercepted a passenger auto-rickshaw that was carrying rice. The vehicle was seized, and its driver, Murtaza Khan, was taken into custody for questioning. His interrogation reportedly led investigators to deeper links within the network.
Grains Seized, Transferred to Government Custody
Following the revelations during Khan's questioning, which included the involvement of Hemraj Yadav in the warehouse operations, the department moved swiftly to secure the illegal stock. All the seized grains from the Jamburi Hapsi warehouse have been transferred to a government warehouse in Rau for safekeeping.
This action by the Indore Food Department highlights ongoing efforts to curb the diversion and black-marketing of essential commodities meant for the public distribution system. The FIR sets the stage for further legal proceedings against the accused individuals.
