Is There a 'Bharat Rice' Distribution Scam? ED Conducts Raids in Punjab and Haryana
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Synopsis
The recent raids by the ED in Punjab and Haryana have unveiled a significant scam involving the diversion of subsidized rice meant for the needy. With substantial cash and gold recovered, this investigation raises vital questions about the integrity of welfare schemes.
Key Takeaways
- ED raids reveal serious fraud in the 'Bharat Rice Scheme'.
- Over Rs 2.02 crore in cash seized during operations.
- Gold worth Rs 1.12 crore also confiscated.
- Investigation linked to misappropriation of subsidized rice.
- Further inquiries are underway by the ED.
Chandigarh, May 25 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate's (ED) Jalandhar Zonal Office has executed search operations across multiple residential and commercial locations in Haryana and Punjab as part of an ongoing money laundering inquiry linked to fraudulent activities associated with the distribution and sale of rice to impoverished individuals under the 'Bharat Rice Scheme', according to a statement released by the agency on Sunday.
On Friday, during the search operation, cash amounting to Rs 2.02 crore, gold bars valued at approximately Rs 1.12 crore, electronic devices, and various incriminating documents were recovered and confiscated, as reported.
The ED began its investigation following the filing of an FIR by the Punjab Police, targeting Gopal Goyal, the proprietor of Shiv Shakti Rice Mill, Jai Jinender Rice Mill, Harish Kumar Bansal, and others under several IPC sections.
The investigation revealed that these individuals were misappropriating rice obtained from designated government bodies at subsidized rates, intended for distribution to poor individuals at a reasonable price under the 'Bharat Rice Scheme'.
They were supposed to process, clean, and package the rice into 5/10 kg bags for distribution to the underprivileged.
However, it was uncovered that the implicated parties and their affiliates were not providing the rice to the intended beneficiaries as mandated by the scheme, but rather redirected it to other rice millers or sold it through unauthorized channels, resulting in the generation of Proceeds of Crime.
The ED has stated that further investigations are ongoing.
Point of View
We stand by the principle of transparency and accountability. The ongoing investigation into the 'Bharat Rice Scheme' underscores the importance of safeguarding public resources intended for the underprivileged. It is imperative that those responsible for such fraud are held accountable, ensuring that aid reaches the intended beneficiaries.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Bharat Rice Scheme'?
The 'Bharat Rice Scheme' is a government initiative aimed at providing subsidized rice to impoverished individuals to ensure food security.
What prompted the ED's investigation?
The investigation was initiated following an FIR lodged by the Punjab Police against several individuals suspected of diverting rice meant for the poor.
What were the findings of the ED during the raids?
During the raids, the ED recovered Rs 2.02 crore in cash, Rs 1.12 crore in gold, electronic devices, and incriminating documents.
What violations occurred under the scheme?
Individuals involved were found to be selling or diverting rice intended for distribution to the poor through unauthorized channels.
What actions will be taken against those involved?
The ED is continuing its investigation, and those found culpable of fraud will face legal consequences for their actions.
