In a fresh case of irregularities in the procurement of agricultural produce, wheat fraud has surfaced in Karnal district of Haryana, barely weeks after a paddy scam came to light. The modus operandi involved selling wheat from Uttar Pradesh in the names of local farmers, thereby cheating the system. Six arhtiyas (commission agents) have been booked in two separate First Information Reports (FIRs) for their alleged involvement in the illegal procurement and diversion of wheat.
Details of the Fraud
The fraud came to notice during an investigation by the Food and Supplies Department. Officials found that wheat procured from Uttar Pradesh was being sold in the mandis of Karnal under the names of local farmers. This allowed the perpetrators to claim undue benefits and also affected the state's procurement records. The wheat was reportedly brought from Uttar Pradesh and then mixed with local produce or sold directly, bypassing the proper channels.
FIRs Registered Against Arhtiyas
Two FIRs have been registered at the Karnal Sadar police station against six arhtiyas. The accused have been identified as Raj Kumar, Ramesh Kumar, and others. The FIRs were lodged based on a complaint by the District Food and Supplies Controller. The charges include cheating, forgery, and criminal conspiracy under the Indian Penal Code, along with violations of the Haryana Wheat Procurement Policy.
Similarities with Paddy Scam
This case bears a striking resemblance to the paddy scam that was uncovered earlier this year in the same region. In that instance, paddy from outside the state was fraudulently sold in the names of local farmers. The modus operandi appears to be similar, indicating a well-organized network of agents and traders involved in such malpractices.
Government's Response
The Haryana government has taken cognizance of the matter and ordered a thorough investigation. Officials have been directed to tighten the procurement process and ensure that only locally grown produce is procured under the state's schemes. The Food and Supplies Department is also conducting a detailed audit of procurement records from the past few months to identify any other irregularities.
Impact on Farmers
Local farmers have expressed concern over the fraud, stating that it undermines the credibility of the procurement system. They fear that such scams could lead to stricter regulations, making it harder for genuine farmers to sell their produce. The farmer unions have demanded strict action against the culprits and measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
Legal Proceedings
The police have launched a manhunt to arrest the accused arhtiyas. Further investigations are underway to determine the full extent of the fraud and identify other individuals who may be involved. The state government has assured that no one involved in the scam will be spared, and the legal process will be expedited.
This case highlights the need for robust monitoring and transparency in the agricultural procurement system. The Haryana government is expected to implement new measures to prevent such frauds, including the use of technology to track the origin of produce and verify the identity of sellers.
