Udupi: Officials seized 400 kg of rice meant for the government’s Anna Bhagya scheme during a raid conducted at Harakeri in Bijoor village of Byndoor taluk in Udupi district. The operation was carried out following a tip-off regarding the illegal storage of rice intended for distribution under the welfare programme.

Authorities said the rice, which is distributed free of cost to eligible beneficiaries under the state government’s Anna Bhagya scheme, was allegedly being stored with the intention of selling it illegally for profit.

Raid conducted after tip-off

According to officials, the raid was conducted based on a complaint filed by Byndoor taluk Food Inspector Vinay Kumar.

Authorities had reportedly received information that rice meant for public distribution was being illegally stored in Bijoor village. Acting on the tip-off, officials carried out a surprise inspection at Harakeri in the village to verify the information.

During the operation, officials discovered a stock of rice suspected to be part of the Anna Bhagya scheme supplies.

Rice stored in goods vehicle

Officials said that during the raid, two individuals — Abdul Majeed and Aisha Wasim — were allegedly found storing the rice inside a three-wheeler goods vehicle.

Preliminary inquiries indicated that the rice had been procured from unknown sources and was being stored with the intention of selling it in the open market at a higher price.

The rice seized during the operation consisted of 15 polythene bags containing a total of 400 kg.

Authorities estimated the value of the seized rice at approximately ₹9,200.

Stock shifted to government warehouse

Following the seizure, officials transported the recovered rice to the Tallur TAMPMC warehouse for safe storage and further proceedings.

Officials said the rice would remain in official custody until the completion of the investigation and legal process.

Authorities also stated that they are examining the supply chain to determine how the rice meant for beneficiaries under the scheme was diverted.

Case registered under Essential Commodities Act

Based on the complaint filed by the Food Inspector, the Byndoor police registered a case against the suspects.

The case has been booked under Sections 3, 6, and 7 of the Essential Commodities Act, which deals with offences related to hoarding, diversion, and illegal sale of essential commodities meant for public distribution.

Police said these provisions allow authorities to take strict action against individuals involved in the illegal storage or sale of essential food items distributed under government schemes.

Investigation underway

Officials said further investigation is currently underway to determine the source of the rice and whether more individuals are involved in the illegal diversion of Anna Bhagya scheme supplies.

Authorities are also trying to find out whether similar activities are taking place in other areas of the taluk.

Officials reiterated that strict action will be taken against those found misusing or illegally trading essential commodities meant for public welfare schemes.

They also urged the public to report any information about the illegal diversion or sale of government-distributed food grains to the authorities.