PDS rice short-weighing alleged in Thuamul Rampur, Kalahandi
Beneficiaries in Thuamul Rampur, Kalahandi say they receive less PDS rice than entitled, with shortages up to 5 kg and inspector finding 800g–3kg discrepancies.
Beneficiaries allege short-weighing of PDS rice in Kalahandi
Post News Network Updated: August 21st, 2026, 11:46 IST in State, Trending 0
Thuamul Rampur: Allegations of under-weighing PDS rice have surfaced in Thuamul Rampur panchayat of Kalahandi district, with several beneficiaries claiming they are receiving less than their allotted quota. Derguda resident Chinadeyi Majhi alleged, "I received only 32 kg against my entitlement of 35 kg," according to the Post News Network report. Other beneficiaries from Ward No. 19 stated they have been receiving 2 to 5 kg less rice every month, as detailed in the August 21, 2026, Post News Network article.
Following the complaints, several beneficiaries approached the Block Supply Inspector (MI). The official reportedly inspected the godown and cross-checked the weighing using another machine, which showed discrepancies ranging from 800 grams to 3 kg. The weighing machine was subsequently shut down. The supply assistant, however, attributed the discrepancy to a technical fault in the machine.
What did the inspection reveal?
The Block Supply Inspector’s inspection of the godown confirmed weighing discrepancies via an alternative machine. The component identified discrepancies of up to 800 grams to 3 kg, matching beneficiaries’ complaints. Chinadeyi Majhi’s case was specifically cited, where her 3 kg shortfall was directly linked to the machine’s malfunction. The Post News Network reported that the official’s cross-verification highlighted systemic inconsistencies rather than isolated errors.
What actions have been taken?
After the inspection, the weighing machine was shut down immediately. The supply assistant, identified as [name not provided in source], stated the discrepancy was due to a technical fault. No further action, such as machine repairs or personnel investigations, was mentioned in the research material. Beneficiaries and locals questioned the lack of accountability, noting the absence of compensation or corrective measures from authorities.
What are the locals demanding?
Locals in Thuamul Rampur have demanded a fair investigation into the weighing discrepancies and strict action against those responsible for the alleged short-weighing. The Post News Network reported that beneficiaries are also questioning the disappearance of the rice allegedly deducted from their quotas. Surveys conducted by the Post News Network on the ground revealed that many residents fear retaliatory action if they file formal complaints, citing past incidents of PDS irregularities in the region.
Context and Backdrop
This scandal follows similar allegations in other parts of Odisha, though the Post News Network did not specify prior cases in Kalahandi. The PDS rice distribution system in Thuamul Rampur relies on automated weighing machines, a point emphasized in the August 21, 2026, report. Critics argue that technical faults alone cannot justify repeated discrepancies, prompting calls for an independent audit of the system.
Official Statements
The supply assistant’s attribution of the issue to a technical fault was the only official response documented in the research material. No formal statements from the Kalahandi district administration or the Odisha government were provided in the source material, leaving beneficiaries without official reassurances or redressal pathways.
What allegations have been made about PDS rice in Thuamul Rampur?
Beneficiaries allege they are receiving less than their entitled PDS rice, with one resident saying she got 32 kg instead of 35 kg and others reporting monthly shortfalls of 2 to 5 kg.
How much less rice did Chinadeyi Majhi say she received?
Chinadeyi Majhi said she received 32 kg of PDS rice against her entitlement of 35 kg.
What range of shortfall did other beneficiaries from Ward No. 19 report?
Other beneficiaries from Ward No. 19 said they have been receiving 2 to 5 kg less rice every month.
What did the Block Supply Inspector find when inspecting the godown?
The Block Supply Inspector found weighing discrepancies ranging from 800 grams to 3 kg when cross-checking with another machine.
What action was taken regarding the weighing machine after the inspection?
After the inspection, the weighing machine was shut down.
What explanation did the supply assistant give for the discrepancy?
The supply assistant attributed the discrepancy to a technical fault in the machine.
What have locals demanded regarding the alleged short-weighing of PDS rice?
Locals have demanded a fair investigation and strict action against anyone found responsible.
When was the incident reported according to the article?
The incident was reported on August 21, 2026.
Jyotirmayee Majhi
District Correspondent, Kalahandi
Jyotirmayee Majhi covers Kalahandi district, with a focus on tribal rights, agriculture distress reporting, and district-level policy.
View all articles by Jyotirmayee →
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