Kalahandi police raided Balaji Rice Mill in Risida under Rampur police station after receiving a tip-off about illegal gambling activities.
Led by Kesinga SDPO Sandeep Majhi, the raid took place on Thursday inside the mill premises. Police apprehended mill owner Shankarlal Agrawal, Binod Jain of Tushura, Jagdamba Rice Mill owner Sunil Kedia, and two youths from Joradabara while they were engaged in gambling.
During the operation, police seized ₹64,390 in cash, one car, six mobile phones, and seven packets of playing cards. Rampur police station in-charge Sanyukta Padahan and Risida outpost officer Manua Bidika assisted in the raid along with other police personnel.
Authorities confirmed that the seized amount totalled Rs 64,390. Later, the mill owner was released on bail from the police station, as informed by officer Padahan to media representatives.
The raid comes amid growing public concern over unethical activities inside rice mills. Recently, Amath Chhak Behera Rice Mill was sealed by the administration. Reports suggest that Balaji Rice Mill has also been involved in questionable practices, including paddy smuggling from outside districts. Locals are demanding strict action and sealing of such mills to curb illegal operations.
