Lucknow, Jan 04: Asserting that all those involved in multi-crore foodgrains scam would be punished, the Uttar Pradesh government today said action had been initiated against over 300 persons, of whom 111 were arrested.
"The government is committed to punish all those who are guilty. So far, action has been initiated against over 300 persons and inquiries are on with regard to complaints from several districts," Food and Civil Supplies Minister Raghuraj Pratap Singh alias Raja Bhaiya told reporters here.
The blackmarketing of foodgrains meant for poor people under various central schemes came to light after departmental officials probed the matter, he said adding even senior IAS officials had been questioned.
Prosecution proceedings were on against 113 persons while 10 had been punished by court, Singh said.
Recovery of money was being made against guilty officials and employees, he said.
Singh, who was jailed during Mayawati regime on various charges and was booked under Pota, blamed previous BJP and BSP governments for the scam.
The Mulayam Singh Yadav government was faced with the difficult task of setting the department in order due to their wrong doings, he said.
To a question, the minister said the food for work scheme was not viable in the state and the government had asked the Centre to withdraw it.
Bureau Report
