270kg rice recovered in Pirganj, locals seek checks on food programme link

Allegations of irregularities involving rice under the Food Friendly Programme have surfaced in Union No. 1 of Pirganj upazila in Rangpur. Police from the Bhendabari investigation centre recovered 270kg of rice, raising questions among locals about its source and distribution.

According to local sources, police recovered the rice from an adjoining veranda to the west of the dealer’s premises. Jahangir was reportedly contacted about the location based on information provided by locals.

Locals alleged that several people might be involved in buying and selling the rice. Traders Saidur Rahman, Gaffar Mia and Akhtarul Mia have been named in this connection. However, their involvement could not be independently confirmed, and the allegations require verification.

Locals have also questioned whether the recovered rice is linked to the Food Friendly Programme and raised concerns about the writing on the sacks. They claimed the sacks carry nutrition-related information and the name of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. However, tests are needed to establish the rice’s actual identity and quality.

The role of truck officer Mukhtar Mia has also come under discussion among locals. He said, however, that he had no role in determining whether the recovered rice belonged to the government’s Food Friendly Programme. Statements from the relevant authorities and the findings of an investigation are needed to establish what happened.

Locals have demanded an impartial investigation into the source, ownership, quality and trading of the 270kg of recovered rice, followed by necessary action.