Udupi, Karnataka: In a significant operation to protect the integrity of the Annabhagya public distribution scheme, the Kota Police, in coordination with the Food Inspector, Brahmavar, intercepted and seized a large quantity of government-supplied ration rice that was allegedly being transported illegally.
Acting on specific information received on 28 July 2026, PSI Praveen Kumar and his police team joined Food Inspector Vasanth Kumar in conducting the operation near Mahalakshmi Hotel in Manur village, Brahmavar Taluk. During the inspection, the authorities found a lorry carrying 160 quintals of government ration rice, packed in 320 plastic bags, without the required permit.
The seized rice, estimated to be worth ₹3.84 lakh, along with the transport vehicle valued at approximately ₹3.50 lakh, resulted in a total seizure worth around ₹7.34 lakh. Preliminary investigation indicated that the rice was allegedly being transported from Karnataka towards Kasaragod, Kerala, in violation of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.
Based on the complaint filed by the Food Inspector, the Kota Police registered a case under the relevant provisions of the Essential Commodities Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and commenced further investigation.
The successful operation highlights the Kota Police’s vigilance in preventing the diversion of essential commodities meant for economically weaker sections, safeguarding government welfare schemes, and ensuring that public resources reach their intended beneficiaries.
Our Citizen Reporter – Karnataka
Wilson D’Souza
