Shimla Ration Card Scam: Over 4,000 Fake Beneficiaries Removed, Investigation on 40,000 More
In Shimla district, a major revelation has come to light during the investigation of ration card holders under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana and BPL (Below Poverty Line) schemes. Over 4,000 fake beneficiaries have been identified and removed from the food supply department’s list. Meanwhile, investigations into more than 40,000 other suspected beneficiaries have been intensified.
The Food Supply Department has called for records from Panchayat Secretaries and Patwaris to verify how many people possess land beyond the prescribed limits and who are still receiving subsidized or free ration unlawfully. Clear instructions have been issued to prepare a list of such individuals and remove those found ineligible from the BPL and Antyodaya Anna Yojana beneficiary lists.
District Controller Narendra Dhiman stated that BPL cardholders receive 19 kg wheat and 15 kg rice per member monthly. Under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana, eligible families get 15 kg rice for free and 18.8 kg wheat at Rs 1.20 per kg. A total of 55,000 ration cardholders in the district are currently under investigation.
Following the removal of fake beneficiaries, some people are approaching the Food Supply Department to reinstate their names by proving eligibility. The department is renewing their certificates and adding them back to the list. However, many suspicious families are delaying the submission of necessary certificates.
Narendra Dhiman urged, “Those who do not meet eligibility criteria should voluntarily surrender their cards so that genuine needy families can benefit from the scheme.”
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