Pattamundai, August 25: Rice meant for beneficiaries under the public distribution system (PDS) was allegedly found to be diverted and most likely to be sold in the open market in Pattamundai block of Kendrapada district.
Local residents Tuesday spotted a Tata Ace vehicle loaded with PDS rice near the Khadianta bridge. The vehicle was traveling from the Gandakia Malibasa area towards Alabha and Pattamundai, raising questions over the transportation route.
Residents informed the District Civil Supplies Officer Benudhar Panigrahi, who said the PDS rice was being transported in a small vehicle from Pattamundai because larger vehicles could not access village roads.
However, Congress leader Malay Das and several residents questioned the explanation, saying larger vehicles are supposed to transport PDS rice from Pattamundai to designated rural dealers. They said the vehicle’s movement towards Pattamundai was suspicious and the rice was meant to be sold in open market.
They also alleged that the vehicle lacked mandatory markings and information boards required for transportation of government-supplied commodities. GPS or vehicle location-tracking devices are also required to monitor such vehicles and prevent diversion and black-market sales.
Residents alleged that the Tata Ace did not comply with these requirements and that its route raised further suspicion of possible diversion of PDS rice. Residents and Congress leaders demanded an impartial investigation and action against those responsible.