In a recent press conference in Pasighat, East Siang District, 51 ration card holders from Padu village, Upper Siang District, Arunachal Pradesh, have voiced grievances regarding anomalies in the distribution of Public Distribution System (PDS) rice. The allegations include violations in the selection of Below Poverty Line (BPL) ration cards and the improper distribution of rations.
Ration Card Holders’ Allegations
The ration card holders claim that their allocated rations were distributed to 89 new cardholders, a move they assert violates government records, as these new beneficiaries are not yet documented in the government portal.
Led by Sor Perme Tayeng, Gram Chairperson of Padu Upper, the aggrieved families demand strict action against officers allegedly involved in the irregularities. The officers in question include CO Mariyang Mopom, DFCSO, and i/c ADC Mariyang.
The ration card holders state that despite multiple complaints to authorities such as Dy. Commissioner, Yingkiong, ADC Mariyang, CO Mariyang (Mopom), and DF&CSO Yingkiong, their concerns remain unaddressed. They express frustration at the need for repeated complaints and visits to offices, emphasizing the financial burden of seeking legal assistance for routine matters.
In addition to distribution issues, the aggrieved ration card holders raise concerns about fraudulent categorization of Above Poverty Line (APL) members under BPL to benefit from Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Priority Households (PHH). They also report the breaking and theft of PDS rice from an FPS store/go-down in Padu village.
While the Dy. Commissioner, Upper Siang District, acknowledges the complainants’ visit and instructs an investigation, Naku Siram, i/c DF&CSO Yingkiong, states her newness to the district and hints at corrective measures where possible.
Appeal to Chief Minister and Higher Authorities
Expressing dissatisfaction with the ongoing issues spanning two years, the aggrieved ration card holders appeal to Chief Minister Pema Khandu and other higher authorities for timely intervention. They seek a thorough third-party investigation, demanding the suspension of allegedly erring officers.
The problems surrounding PDS distribution in Padu village have deep-rooted concerns, prompting the community to seek comprehensive action to rectify the situation.