Shillong: Authorities in Meghalaya’s Ranikor region have swiftly addressed a year-long issue of food ration denial in Koraibari village, following direct intervention through the CM Connect initiative.
The controversy began when the local Fair Price Shop dealer, Welwering R. Marak, allegedly withheld food grains under the National Food Security Act from beneficiaries for up to two years. The denial was reportedly linked to village factionalism, which resulted in certain groups being deprived of their legal entitlements.
On February 17, an investigation team from the Supply Department visited Koraibari after residents raised concerns with Chief Minister Conrad Sangma. Upon verifying the allegations, officials took immediate action by cancelling Marak’s dealer license and instructing him to surrender all related documentation.
“We could not believe that in just two days after complaining, officials came to our village, verified the complaint and immediately cancelled the dealership license. We are now getting our entitlement,” shared the village secretary.
The Deputy Commissioner of Southwest Khasi Hills has been directed to file an FIR against Marak if the withheld food grains are not distributed to the rightful beneficiaries. Efforts are also underway to reconcile the warring village factions and prevent future disruptions.
In response to the issue, Supply Department Director Anita Kharpor has instructed officials to conduct a thorough inquiry, while Commissioner Pravin Bakshi has emphasized the use of electronic Point of Sale devices to ensure transparent distribution and provide automated receipts to beneficiaries.
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