AP Government Declares Illegal Ration Rice Transport as Organized Crime

The Andhra Pradesh government has decided to classify the illegal transportation of ration rice intended for the poor as an organized crime. A cabinet subcommittee meeting comprising Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar, Agriculture Minister K. Achannaidu, and Health Minister Satyakumar Yadav was held today at the state secretariat.

During the meeting, discussions were held on issues related to the illegal transportation of ration rice and activities at Kakinada Port. It was decided to strengthen security systems at Kakinada Port, including the appointment of a Chief Security Officer specifically for port security. The government directed stringent action against anyone involved in the illegal transportation of PDS rice, now deemed an organized crime.

Enhanced monitoring measures will be implemented for transportation activities in and around Kakinada Port. Legal action was ordered against the ship Stella, which was found exporting rice from Kakinada Anchorage Port.

The committee also discussed the presence of sorting machines (Sortex machines) in five warehouses at Kakinada Port. The ministers questioned the Maritime Board and port officials about the installation of these machines. An investigation into their installation was ordered, along with strict action against those responsible.

The meeting was attended by the Director General of Vigilance and Enforcement, IG of Law and Order, Ex-officio Secretary of Civil Supplies, MD of Civil Supplies Corporation, CEO of the Maritime Board, Customs officials, Kakinada Port officials, and Transport Department officers.