District Collector orders probe into ration shortage at Edamalakkudy in Idukki

District Collector Dineshan Cheruvat on Friday ordered a joint-registrar level probe into the Devikulam Girijan Co-operative Society—the body responsible for ration distribution in the Edamalakudy tribal panchayat—after a shortage of over 64,000 kg of rice was reported.

The massive deficit in food grains was unearthed after Edamalakudy panchayat president Binu M. alerted Civil Supplies department officials that the society had exhausted its rice stock, leaving tribal residents struggling to access food. Following a subsequent investigation, the officials confirmed a shortage of 64,814 kg of rice. An inquiry report by the Pallivasal rationing inspector revealed that the society, which operates two ration shops at Societykudy and Vellavarakkudy in the tribal panchayat, has a shortage of 64,814 kg of rice, 1,562 kg of wheat, 299 kg of sugar, and 1,356 kg of flour. The report further noted that the society is no longer capable of managing ration distribution in the panchayat.