Digvijaya Singh Demands Investigation into Wheat Procurement Issues in MP
Synopsis
In Madhya Pradesh, former CM Digvijaya Singh has raised alarms over wheat procurement irregularities, demanding an investigation. With significant amounts of grain spoiled, he seeks accountability from the state government to protect the interests of farmers and ensure food security.
Key Takeaways
Digvijaya Singh raises alarm over wheat procurement irregularities.
Demands a thorough investigation by the State Economic Offences Wing .
Claims 40,000 tonnes of wheat worth Rs 100 crore spoiled.
Calls for accountability in the management of food grains.
Highlights failure in the Public Distribution System .
Bhopal, April 15 (NationPress) In light of the current wheat procurement initiative in Madhya Pradesh, former Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh has expressed grave apprehensions regarding purported irregularities in the storage and management of wheat in the districts of Raisen and Sehore. He has called on Chief Minister Mohan Yadav to initiate a thorough investigation.
In a formal communication to Chief Minister Yadav on Wednesday, Singh alleged that the mishandling of procured wheat from 2017 to 2020 resulted in significant financial detriment and wastage of essential food grain intended for public distribution.
He insisted on an unbiased inquiry by the State Economic Offences Wing.
Singh highlighted the magnitude of the issue, claiming that approximately 40,000 tonnes of wheat, worth nearly Rs 100 crore, was allowed to deteriorate due to prolonged storage conditions. Additionally, he stated that about Rs 150 crore was expended on its upkeep and warehousing.
“This is not merely a case of financial mismanagement; it exemplifies a systemic failure where food grain designated for the underprivileged has been permitted to spoil,” Singh emphasized, demanding accountability.
He further pointed out that the wheat procured at the Minimum Support Price was not collected promptly by the Food Corporation of India nor was it effectively distributed through the Public Distribution System, leading to spoilage.
Singh also accused officials of transferring the spoiled stock among various locations, including from Baktara in Sehore to warehouses in Raisen, allegedly to benefit private warehouse operators.
Additionally, he raised concerns regarding irregularities in transportation contracts, asserting they were awarded to close associates.
The Congress leader noted that he had previously brought this issue to light in July 2023, but no action was taken, prompting questions about the administrative reaction.
These allegations emerge as the state government escalates its wheat procurement efforts at the Minimum Support Price, assuring farmers of adequate storage and timely payments.
Singh's letter has reinvigorated discussions about whether previous shortcomings have been addressed and if measures are in place to avert similar losses in the future.
He called on the Chief Minister to enforce strict penalties against those responsible, cautioning that failure to act could undermine the state’s financial integrity and erode public confidence.
Point of View
Particularly in sectors vital to public welfare.
NationPress
30 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific irregularities did Digvijaya Singh highlight?
Singh pointed out issues related to the mismanagement of wheat storage, delays in lifting procured wheat, and the alleged transfer of spoiled stock to benefit private operators.
What was the financial impact of the alleged mismanagement?
Approximately 40,000 tonnes of wheat worth around Rs 100 crore was left to spoil, while Rs 150 crore was spent on its storage and maintenance.
Who is Digvijaya Singh calling for an investigation from?
He has urged Chief Minister Mohan Yadav to initiate a high-level inquiry by the State Economic Offences Wing.
When did Digvijaya Singh first raise these issues?
He initially flagged the issue in July 2023, without any subsequent action taken by the authorities.
What are the potential consequences of inaction on this issue?
Singh warned that inaction could jeopardize the state’s financial credibility and diminish public trust.
