Serious allegations of ration rice smuggling have resurfaced at Kakinada Port, echoing similar accusations raised during the previous YSRCP government. Despite multiple inspections by Civil Supplies Minister Nandendla Manohar, large-scale illegal transport of PDS rice persists.
In a recent operation, the Kakinada District Collector and SP intercepted a South African ship carrying approximately 640 tonnes of ration rice meant for illegal export. The incident has heightened scrutiny of port operations and enforcement measures.
Today, Civil Supplies Minister Nandendla Manohar and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan visited Kakinada Port to personally review the situation. They inspected the South African ship and another barge reportedly prepared for export, expressing concern over the systemic lapses.
During the visit, Pawan Kalyan directly questioned port officials about the regulatory framework and enforcement failures. He also criticized city MLA Kondababu, asking how PDS rice could enter the port under his jurisdiction. “Is this what we fought for?” Pawan Kalyan remarked, expressing his frustration.
కాకినాడ పోర్టు నుంచి రేషన్ బియ్యం అక్రమ రవాణా జరుగుతుండటంపై పవన్ కళ్యాణ్ ఆగ్రహం వ్యక్తం చేశారు. ఇలాంటి ఘటనలను పట్టించుకోవాలి కదా? అంటూ స్థానిక ఎమ్మెల్యే వనమాడి వెంకటేశ్వరరావు, పోర్టు అధికారులపై మండిపడ్డారు. @PawanKalyan #janasenaparty #kakinadaport #rationrice #MLA… pic.twitter.com/Pn1RfP3Qvz
— RTV (@RTVnewsnetwork) November 29, 2024
When Kondababu attempted to clarify, Pawan dismissed the explanation, emphasizing accountability. The Deputy Chief Minister also reprimanded the police, particularly the Kakinada DSP, for inadequate action against large-scale smuggling activities. Following the inspection, Pawan and the team extended their review into the sea to further investigate the intercepted ship.