Ration scam: ED raids about 12 places across the state

Kolkata: The ED conducted raids at multiple locations across Bengal on Friday in connection with an alleged corruption case involving ration distribution.

During the probe, officials reportedly uncovered evidence suggesting that large quantities of food grains were being smuggled to Bangladesh. Following this lead, the agency carried out searches at at least 12 locations, including Kolkata, Howrah, North 24-Parganas, Murshidabad, and West Burdwan.

Investigations indicated the involvement of several businessmen engaged in the import and export of food grains. The ED found that essential commodities such as rice and wheat, meant for public distribution, were allegedly diverted from warehouses and funneled into the black market. Officials suspect that the smuggling network is highly organised and may involve multiple shell companies facilitating the operation.

Raids were conducted at the office and residence of a businessman in Poddar Court and Lord Sinha Road, along with premises linked to others in Howrah, Bongaon, Raniganj, and Murshidabad.

Separately, in connection with a municipal recruitment corruption case, the ED has re-summoned outgoing TMC MLAs Rathin Ghosh and Sujit Bose. Ghosh had earlier skipped one appearance, while Bose cited election campaign commitments for missing the previous summons. Both have now been asked to appear before the agency on Saturday.