Guwahati: The Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuba Parishad (AJYP) on Friday has written to Union Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Minister Pralhad Joshi, demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged pilferage of rice meant for poor beneficiaries from the Food Corporation of India (FCI) godown in Assam’s Dhemaji district.
In its memorandum, routed through the Dhemaji district commissioner, the organization claimed that around 26,800 bags of rice, amounting to nearly 14,000 quintals and valued at approximately Rs 5.20 crore, were stolen from the FCI godown. The rice was part of supplies provided by the Government of India for distribution among economically vulnerable sections.
AJYP stated that an initial inquiry by the FCI led to the suspension of seven employees in two phases, including one Bikash Das. However, the organization alleged that no action has been initiated against contractors allegedly involved in the irregularities, raising concerns about the fairness and completeness of the investigation.
The AJYP has urged the Union minister to order an impartial probe and ensure strict punishment for all those found guilty. Among its key demands, AJYP called for the immediate transfer of the investigation to the CBI and sought to bring godowns under the FCI Lakhimpur office within the ambit of the inquiry. It also demanded an investigation into the alleged distribution of substandard rice through fair price shops and accountability for those responsible.
The memorandum further flagged concerns over the reported theft of rice from rail wagons at Dhemaji railway station, seeking clarity on how the consignment went missing before reaching its intended destination.
AJYP leaders said the matter involves public welfare funds and food security for the poor, and appealed for swift and decisive action to restore public confidence in the distribution system.
