Maha fortified rice scam accused held in Kausani

A man accused in Maharashtra’s fortified rice distribution fraud was arrested on Thursday from Kausani, a hill station in Bageshwar district. His arrest marks a significant step in exposing how subsidised food grains meant for the poor were illegally diverted for profit in domestic and international markets.

Laxman Patel, the main suspect and head of Jai Anand Food Industries in Khalapur tehsil of Raigad district, had been absconding since May 8. He was tracked down through mobile surveillance in a joint operation by Maharashtra and Uttarakhand police.

Officials said Patel’s company illegally procured fortified rice intended for distribution through the Public Distribution System (PDS) and sold it at higher prices in domestic and international markets, violating multiple regulations.

The scam came to light when the Food Supply Department intercepted several vehicles carrying large quantities of fortified rice linked to Patel’s enterprise. Authorities seized the stock and launched a detailed investigation.

Kausani station officer (SO) Dinesh Pant said, “The accused had been frequently changing locations to evade arrest. We extended full support to the Maharashtra police, who successfully apprehended him here.”

After being presented before a local court, Patel was placed in Panvel City Police custody. Transit permission was granted, and he was taken to Maharashtra for further legal proceedings.

This article has been republished from The Times of India.