Poonch: MLA Haveli Ajaz Jan on Saturday rushed to Dhara Block of Sathra Tehsil in Poonch district after locals alleged underweight ration bags and delayed supply at the government-run food store. Following his visit, the store was sealed and a formal inquiry was ordered by the District Administration.
Details available with news agency JKNS reads, concerned members of the Panchayat along with the general public of Dhara Block, Sathra Tehsil, met MLA Poonch, Mr. Ajaz Jan, regarding a serious issue of ration shortage reported at the Mandi Food Store.
Responding promptly to public grievances, MLA Ajaz Jan visited the Panchayat Dhara Food Store for an on-ground assessment. During the inspection, it was discovered that the ration stock, which was officially scheduled for delivery before 10th May 2025, was only delivered today (24th May). The challan accompanying the delivery was dated 10th May, raising serious concerns of mismanagement and possible fraud.
Upon further examination, it was found that ration bags, which should have contained 50 kg of food grains, were significantly underweight ranging between 38 to 44 kg. This discrepancy indicated a large-scale scam, potentially depriving BPL (Below Poverty Line) families of their rightful share of essential supplies.
After hearing testimonies from the store dealer and local residents, MLA Jan immediately contacted the Minister’s Office, the District Development Commissioner (DDC) Poonch, Superintendent of Police (SP) Poonch, and Assistant Director, CAPD Poonch. Acting swiftly, DDC Poonch directed the Tehsildar (Magistrate) Mandi and SHO Mandi to initiate an official inquiry.
In the presence of the Magistrate, the store was thoroughly inspected, the weights of all ration bags were verified, and the delivery documentation was reviewed. The store has since been sealed, and select ration bags have been seized and sent to Police Station Mandi for evidence collection.
MLA Jan has directed the Magistrate to initiate strict legal action against all those involved and instructed SHO Mandi to lodge an FIR against those responsible for this blatant exploitation of poor and vulnerable citizens.
The local population of Dhara Panchayat expressed deep gratitude to MLA Ajaz Jan and the District Administration for their timely intervention. MLA Jan assured the people of Haveli Constituency that he will personally visit ration stores across the area to ensure transparency and accountability in the distribution process. (JKNS)
