The Odisha government has launched a stringent crackdown on illegally acquired ration cards by foreign nationals residing in the state.
The initiative follows reports that several individuals from neighbouring countries, including Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, have managed to obtain ration cards meant for Indian citizens through fraudulent means and political influence.
Krushna Chandra Patra, the Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister, announced that district Collectors have been directed to identify and cancel the ration cards of foreign nationals without delay. The process involves verifying voter IDs, Aadhaar cards, and other identity documents to ensure that only eligible Indian citizens benefit from the Public Distribution System. Legal action has been warned against those responsible for enabling this misuse of welfare schemes.
This measure is part of broader efforts to address security concerns and tighten monitoring of borders. Notices have already been served to foreign nationals found residing illegally, reinforcing the government’s commitment to protect the sanctity of public resources and ensure that welfare schemes reach the intended beneficiaries.
