Udupi: Officials of the food and civil supplies department seized over 15 quintals of rice allegedly meant for free distribution under the public distribution system (PDS) from a general store in Brahmavar taluk.Based on a tip off, the department officials conducted a raid on a general store in Kenjoor village on Monday, and seized rice allegedly meant for distribution to ration card holders.According to the complaint filed by Vasanth Kumar, food inspector, a tip-off was received from the public, following which the deputy director of the food and civil supplies department, directed officials to visit the premises. During the inspection, officials found several sacks of rice stored in a room adjacent to the shop. On examination, the rice was identified as that meant for free distribution to ration card holders under the PDS.The shop owner was identified as Nagaraj Nayak. When asked to produce documents authorising possession of the rice, he allegedly failed to provide any. He also did not give a satisfactory explanation regarding the source of the stock.In the presence of Brahmavar police ASI Vittal M, the seized rice bags were weighed. Officials found over 15 quintals rice stored in 42 bags, with an estimated value of Rs 51,680. Based on the complaint, Brahmavar police registered a case under Sections 3 and 7 of the Essential Commodities Act and provisions of the Essential Commodities (Public Distribution System) Control Order.
