The Tiruppur unit of Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) has made a representation to the district administration detailing modus operandi of smugglers of ration rice, and demanding stringent action against the culprits and “conniving” government employees.
Taking advantage of the practice of a large section of beneficiaries to forgo rice purchase at the public distribution outlets, the anti-socials procure tonnes of rice from the hundreds of public distribution outlets for ₹ 10 a kg from the salespersons, and sell the stock at rice mills at a much higher price, with a tacit understanding with officials, A. Tamilvendan, former district secretary of VCK, said in his petition submitted to District Collector T. Christuraj.
The contraband stock supplied by the anti-social elements to the rice mills is again despatched to the PDS outlets, in a circular movement.
The anti-social groups also transport the rice surreptitiously to neighbouring States, and supply huge quantities to makers of idli/dosa batter.
“Corruption caused by such clandestine movement of ration rice could be curbed by installing CCTV cameras at the PDS outlets and the mills with constant monitoring from a control room in the collectorate,” Mr. Tamilvendan said.
The rice smugglers and the mill proprietors who act hand in glove must be detained under Goondas Act, Mr. Tamilvendan demanded in the petition, copies of which were also forwarded to the Chief Minister’s Cell, Chief Secretary, and Director General of Police.
Citing media reports in recent months on arrests of hoarders of ration rice and the clashes amongst smugglers, Mr. Tamilvendan sought action by the State government to curb the illegal activity on a war-footing.
The District Supply Officer did not respond to phone calls.
In a related development, the Food Cell police, acting on a tip-off, intercepted a load auto along Uthukuli Road on Monday night and confiscated 1,100 kg of ration rice, and arrested the driver.
Published – February 04, 2025 10:32 pm IST