Daijiworld Media Network - Brahmavar

Brahmavar, Nov 2: Officials on Monday November 2 seized several quintals of rice that was being sold illegally at Kalmargi in Shiriya here.

The rice was part of the ration under the Anna Bhagya scheme that had been initiated by the erstwhile Congress government in the state.

Based on credible information, the district administration officials led by deputy commissioner G Jagadeesha raided a rice mill in Kalmargi.

Around 600 quintals of rice were seized during the operation. The total value of seized rice is estimated at Rs 16.5 lac.

Three truck drivers and a cleaner were taken into custody. Six trucks, two 407 tempos, one Tata 909 and a Maruti Eco vehicle were confiscated.

Illegal sale and transportation of rice to beneficiaries under the Anna Bhagya scheme is active in the district. Last month too, 600 quintals of rice were seized in Kundapur by the officials.

The raid was conducted based on information collected by officials on illegal sale and transportation of rice under Anna Bhagya scheme in the district for the past one month.

Following the incident, the district administration urged citizens to be wary of illegal sale of rice under Anna Bhagya scheme, and inform the district administration if they come across any such illegal activity.

"We urge the citizens to cooperate and inform us of any such illegal sale and transportation of rice. We also urge beneficiaries of the scheme to not resell the rice they get. With people's cooperation and support, we can take immediate action against culprits involved in this activity," urged the DC.

Food and public distribution department deputy director Gajendra, department inspector Parvati, Suresh, Brahmavar tahsildar Kiran Goraiah and others took part in the raid operation.