Puducherry Assembly Erupts Over Irregularities in Ration Card Issuance

Independent members of the Puducherry Assembly accused the Department of Civil Supplies and Consumer Welfare of issuing red colour ration cards meant for poor families to ineligible people. The Chief Minister initiated an enquiry, while Minister Sai J Saravanan Kumar denied the allegations and called for official complaints.

The Puducherry Assembly erupted in noisy scenes on Tuesday as independent members levelled serious charges against the Department of Civil Supplies and Consumer Welfare. They alleged that 'red colour ration cards', intended for poor families, had been issued to 'ineligible people'.

P R Siva, independent member from the Tirunallar constituency in Karaikal, raised concerns while speaking on the budget presented by Chief Minister N Rangasamy. He pointed to various irregularities, claiming even 'above poverty line' yellow ration cardholders were issued red ration cards.

Minister for Adi Dravidar Welfare Sai J Saravanan Kumar dismissed the allegations, urging complaints to be made directly with the relevant officials. Independent member Angalane called for a CBI probe to address the 'blunders'. Speaker R Selvam confirmed the Chief Minister had initiated an enquiry and promised a detailed report in the current session. The Assembly's proceedings were adjourned for the day.

(With inputs from agencies.)