Food Theft Is a Crime Against the Poor

THE ongoing non-distribution of PMGKAY and NFSA rice in Churachandpur is not just a failure of administration; it is a serious wrongdoing committed against the poorest families. Government records show that PDS Agents have already lifted all the allocated rice, yet thousands of ordinary households receive nothing. This is clear evidence that someone is stealing food meant for the needy. The government must treat this as a crime. For years, the system has remained dysfunctional, almost dying, with no proper action taken. Even under President’s Rule, the old pattern of negligence continues, and no rice reaches the homes of those who need it most.

People in the district share painful stories that show how deep the problem is. One elderly man said he last received only 5 kg for his entire family, many years ago, and still does not know where the rest of his entitled rice went. Such voices represent the silent suffering of countless households. What good is a ration card if it brings no food at all? The government must urgently update, renew and verify all ration cards so that genuine beneficiaries are not left out. Meanwhile, nominated PDS Agents and distributors who keep perfect paperwork but fail to deliver must be investigated and punished. Their actions are not mistakes; they are deliberate acts of denying people their rights.

Today we see a government machinery that has failed to perform basic duties, lacking strong checks and balances. This failure has allowed corruption to grow openly. When official files say “distributed” but people receive nothing, it means the system has collapsed. The government must wake up and act immediately. Strict monitoring of agents, regular audits, and strong accountability are urgently needed. Food meant for the poor cannot be allowed to disappear. It is time for firm action, no more excuses.

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