Sun Dec 01 00:50:00 UTC 2024: **Andhra Pradesh Deputy CM Exposes Rice Smuggling Racket, Orders Ship Seizure**
Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh – December 1, 2024 – Deputy Chief Minister (DCM) Pawan Kalyan has launched a scathing attack on officials allegedly facilitating the large-scale smuggling of ration rice from Kakinada port to foreign countries. His accusations follow the refusal of Kakinada port to issue a no-due certificate to the Stella ship, currently loaded with rice, suspected to be PDS rice intended for export.
The DCM has ordered the seizure of the Stella ship, a Panamanian vessel carrying 640 tons of rice, but port authorities are hesitant, citing jurisdictional limitations. They claim only customs has the authority to seize a ship and that ration rice doesn’t fall under smuggling laws. However, the possibility of pursuing legal action through the civil supplies department and Admiralty Court is being explored.
Kalyan personally inspected a barge at the Anchorage port, where ration rice was recently confiscated, and then ventured out to sea despite inclement weather, to reach the Stella ship. He expressed outrage at the alleged complicity of officials, including the District Supply Officer (DSO), Collector, port officials, and the District SP, whom he accused of inaction and even colluding with the rice mafia. He further threatened to write to the Prime Minister and Home Minister regarding the dangerous situation at Kakinada port.
Minister Nadeendla Manohar revealed that 26,000 metric tons of PDS rice were seized in Kakinada in June, indicating a well-established smuggling network operating from Guntur, Chittoor, and Srikakulam districts. He reiterated the government’s commitment to taking strict action against those involved.
Meanwhile, TDP MLA Vanamali Kondababu accused officials of engaging in similar activities during their previous tenure in power. The incident highlights the ongoing struggle against rice smuggling in the state and the significant role officials are allegedly playing. The investigation is ongoing.
First Piper 