Police Detain Two Over Illegal Ration Reselling in Cooch Behar

Police in Cooch Behar have detained two individuals following allegations of government-subsidized ration being sold back to a dealer. The incident occurred in the Egaromile area under the Pardubi Gram Panchayat of Mathabhanga-2 block on Sunday, leading to significant local unrest.

Details of the Police Action

Following reports of local protests, officials from the Ghoksadanga police station arrived at the scene to manage the situation. Police have taken one ration shop employee and one buyer into custody for questioning. Authorities confirmed that an investigation into the matter is currently underway to determine the facts surrounding these allegations.

Allegations from Local Residents

Residents of the area have accused a network of brokers and middlemen of operating a scheme where ration supplies are bought from consumers at low prices immediately after distribution. Local citizens have demanded strict administrative action, citing ongoing concerns about the misuse of government food distribution schemes. Political representatives have also requested a high-level inquiry into the operations of the local ration system.

Response from the Ration Dealer

The dealer, Sushil Bhowmik, has denied all allegations of wrongdoing, stating that the shop operates strictly according to government regulations. The dealer claims he opposed an outsider attempting to purchase ration illegally, and suggests that the current accusations are part of a conspiracy against him.

Official Administrative Stance

The block food department has acknowledged the severity of the incident. Department officials stated that the matter is being treated with urgency and a formal report will be submitted to higher authorities following a thorough review of the facts. The situation in the area remains under police observation.