Has the J&K Crime Branch Uncovered a Rice Diversion Scam?
Synopsis
The Jammu and Kashmir Crime Branch has taken significant action by filing a charge sheet against three officials involved in a rice diversion scam in Baramulla. This case, stemming from suspected misappropriation, uncovers a complex network of deceit and highlights the need for accountability in public service.
Key Takeaways
Investigations revealed significant discrepancies in rice dispatch records.
Three officials from the FCS&CA Department are charged with misappropriation.
The case highlights the need for accountability in public service.
The charge sheet has been submitted for judicial assessment.
Transparency is essential to restore public trust in government operations.
Srinagar, Dec 9 (NationPress) The Crime Branch of Jammu and Kashmir Police announced on Tuesday that it has submitted a charge sheet to the judicial system against individuals implicated in the rice diversion scandal in the Baramulla district.
According to a statement from the Crime Branch Kashmir, “The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Crime Branch J&K has lodged a charge sheet in case FIR No. 07/2020 under Sections 409, 420, 120-B RPC before the Hon’ble Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Sopore, targeting three officials from the Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA) Department.”
The individuals charged are Siraj-ud-Din Bhat (then TSO PEG Baramulla), son of Mohd Sideeq Bhat, a resident of Waripora, Safapora Ganderbal; Mohd Hussain Bhat (then TSO/Storekeeper Hygam Granary), son of Abdul Rahim Bhat, a resident of Kichloo, Qazipora Handwara; and Mohammad Shafi Rather alias Shafi Kanda (then TSO Hygam Granary), son of Mohd Sultan Rather, and a resident of Wanigam Pattan.
This case emerged from a notification from the Directorate of FCS&CA, which pointed to potential misappropriation of rice from the Hygam and Baramulla (Centre D) granaries.
“Following these alerts, an investigation was launched, leading the SSP Crime Branch Kashmir to order a Joint Surprise Check (JSC) to validate the authenticity of food grain dispatches and receipts. The JSC revealed significant inconsistencies. Seven truckloads of rice were allegedly dispatched from PEG (Private Entrepreneurs Guarantee Scheme) Baramulla, overseen by FCI officials and the TSO PEG Baramulla. The challans deceitfully recorded these shipments as received at Hygam Granary and later distributed to sale centers at Wagoora, Nowpora, Kathigan Jathiar, Kalantra, and Dandmoh. Nevertheless, all these sale centers firmly denied receiving any such stocks, and their official records supported this denial,” the statement detailed.
Further inquiry indicated that the challans were fraudulently acquired by Assistant Storekeeper Palhallan Pattan, Mohammad Shafi Rather, from Siraj-ud-Din Bhat, and were subsequently managed through TSO Hygam, Mohd Hussain Bhat.
“The investigation confirmed that the accused officials, in a criminal conspiracy with each other and certain FCI Baramulla personnel, misappropriated a significant quantity of rice, resulting in considerable financial loss to the state. Based on extensive oral and documentary evidence, the charges against the accused have been substantiated.
As a result, the charge sheet under Section 173 CrPC has been filed with the appropriate court for judicial assessment,” the statement concluded.
Point of View
It's essential that we hold public officials accountable for their actions. The allegations surrounding the rice diversion scam in Jammu and Kashmir highlight the critical need for transparency and integrity within government departments. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial for the public to remain informed and engaged in ensuring that justice is served.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the rice diversion scam?
The rice diversion scam involves allegations of misappropriation of rice from government granaries in Jammu and Kashmir, leading to significant financial loss.
Who are the accused in this case?
The accused include three officials from the Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs Department, specifically Siraj-ud-Din Bhat, Mohd Hussain Bhat, and Mohammad Shafi Rather.
What actions were taken by the Crime Branch?
The Crime Branch filed a charge sheet in court against the accused, based on evidence of misappropriation and discrepancies in rice dispatch records.
How did the investigation begin?
The investigation started following a communication from the Directorate of FCS&CA, which raised concerns about potential rice misappropriation.
What is the significance of this charge sheet?
The charge sheet represents a crucial step in addressing corruption within public services and ensuring accountability for the misuse of state resources.
