Kolkata, 12 June (H.S.) : West Bengal Food Minister Ashok Kirtonia on Friday ordered a detailed investigation into an alleged attempt to smuggle wheat from an FCI-linked warehouse in Madhyamgram of North 24 Parganas district, following the interception of multiple truckloads of grain that were reportedly being diverted illegally.

According to preliminary information, nine truckloads of wheat were allegedly being transported for illegal diversion towards Bangladesh when officials of the Food Department intervened and stopped the vehicles. After receiving information about the incident, the minister visited the site on Friday afternoon and personally reviewed the situation.

Officials said that as per last month's records, out of a stock of 5,300 quintals of wheat, around 5,200 quintals were supposed to have been dispatched, leaving a balance of 100 quintals in the warehouse. The Food Department had scheduled an inquiry on Friday to verify the stock position.

However, authorities alleged that during the night, nearly 960 quintals of wheat were being moved out of the warehouse, raising questions about the source of the grain and why it had allegedly been retained instead of being distributed through official channels. Officials suspect that the movement of the wheat may have been intended to manipulate stock records ahead of the departmental inspection.

The minister also expressed concern over reports that two additional truckloads had already left the warehouse in the name of the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme. He reportedly directed local authorities to trace and bring back the vehicles for verification.

During the inspection, Kirtonia noted several alleged irregularities at the facility, including the storage of both domestic and commercial LPG cylinders within the premises. The warehouse is responsible for supplying food grains and other essential commodities under various government schemes, including ICDS.

Taking a strong stand, the minister said that no illegal activity would be tolerated and announced that the warehouse would be sealed pending investigation. He further directed officials to seize the nine trucks allegedly involved in the attempted wheat diversion.

“The law will take its own course. No one is above the law. Strict action will be taken against all those found involved in the incident,” Kirtonia said.

The minister also instructed officials to identify ration outlets facing shortages of wheat and ensure that the seized stock is redirected to legitimate distribution channels wherever required.

The Food Department has initiated an inquiry, and further action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh