BKU flags irregularities in weighing of wheat; DC orders probe

A delegation of the BKU (Mann) protested at the Mini Secretariat against the alleged irregularities in wheat weighing at Karnal and Kunjpura grain markets. They submitted their complaints to DC Uttam Singh and demanded action against arhtiyas and others involved in weighing extra grains of farmers in gunny bags.

The inquiry has been assigned to Additional Deputy Commissioner Yash Jaluka. Meanwhile, the district administration has suspended the licences of two arhtiyas.

Rattan Mann, state president of the BKU, criticised the government machinery for failing to protect farmers’ interests during procurement. “The system seems to be sitting idle while farmers are being looted openly,” he said.

Mann said a delegation of the BKU conducted surprise inspections at the Karnal and Kunjpura grain markets on Wednesday and found that wheat sacks had been weighed with excess weight beyond the government-mandated standards — a violation that impacted farmers’ earnings.

Even though officials regularly visited procurement centres, irregularities in weighing continue unchecked, he said, adding that, “the government must conduct honest, ground-level inspections to ensure fair practices.”

He urged the farmers to remain vigilant during the weighing process.

“A delegation of the BKU met me and I assured them of strict action against those involved in irregularities. We have suspended the licences of two arhtiyas,” said the DC.