Vigilance Bureau Directed to Investigate Complaints of Manipulation in Paddy Procurement Scheme
In a significant move addressing allegations of corruption within Kerala's public distribution system, the Kerala High Court has directed the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau to investigate complaints regarding the manipulation of the Decentralised Paddy Procurement Scheme (DCP). The judgment, delivered by a division bench comprising Chief Justice Soumen Sen and Justice Syam Kumar V.M., was in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Advocate Arjun V.S.
The PIL alleged that a coalition of private rice mill owners and corrupt officials systematically undermined the DCP scheme. This scheme is vital for procuring paddy from registered farmers to produce Custom Milled Rice (CMR) for distribution. The petitioner presented data indicating that certain rice mills were favored in contravention of established procurement policies.
In the court order, the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau was instructed to evaluate the complaint and take legal action if the allegations hold merit. The 3rd respondent, involved in the action against erring rice mills, was also directed to continue enforcing compliance with the norms and guidelines of the paddy procurement scheme.
The petitioner's representation to the Director of the Vigilance Bureau had earlier highlighted the issue, prompting this judicial intervention. The court has scheduled a follow-up session for September 30, 2026, to review compliance with its directives.
Bottom Line :
Public Interest Litigation alleging corruption in the public distribution system in Kerala - Directions issued to the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau to consider the complaint and take action in accordance with the law if the complaint is found to have merit.
Statutory provision(s): Civil Supplies Manual, Decentralised Paddy Procurement Scheme Guidelines, Custom Milled Rice (CMR) Policies.
Adv. Arjun V.S v. State of Kerala, (Kerala)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2963353
