Former Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh has expressed worries about alleged irregularities in wheat storage and handling during the ongoing procurement in Madhya Pradesh’s Raisen and Sehore districts. Singh, in a letter to Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, highlighted concerns about financial losses and foodgrain wastage between 2017 and 2020, urging a high-level probe by the State Economic Offences Wing. He emphasized that around 40,000 tonnes of wheat, worth nearly Rs 100 crore, were left to spoil due to extended storage, with maintenance costs amounting to almost Rs 150 crore.
Singh criticized the mismanagement, stating that the negligence not only caused financial losses but also jeopardized food meant for the underprivileged. He demanded accountability for the failure to timely lift the wheat at Minimum Support Price by the Food Corporation of India and its distribution through the Public Distribution System, leading to spoilage. Alleging that the spoiled stock was moved between locations to favor private warehouse operators, Singh also raised concerns about irregularities in transportation contracts awarded to close associates.
The Congress leader pointed out that despite raising the issue in July 2023, no action was taken, questioning the administrative response. These allegations surface as the state government intensifies wheat procurement at Minimum Support Price, promising farmers efficient storage and prompt payments. Singh’s letter has reignited discussions on addressing past lapses and ensuring preventive measures against similar losses. He urged the Chief Minister to take strict action against the responsible parties, cautioning that failure to act could harm the state’s financial credibility and public trust.
