Cheated, retired scientist flags 'kachi slip' scam
A day after reports emerged about farmers being paid less for their paddy than the rates mentioned in the 'J' form issued by procurement agencies, more farmers have come forward with similar allegations. They claim to have been cheated by arhtiyas under the pretext of excessive moisture or other minor reasons.
The farmers highlighted receiving 'kachi slips' (informal receipts) showing rates below the MSP at the time of procurement, while their bank accounts later reflected payment at MSP, which is Rs 2,310 per quintal.
Dr Virender Singh Lather, a former principal scientist at ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, is among the affected farmers. He alleged that he was issued a 'kachi slip' by an arhtiya, even though the form — the official receipt issued by the procurement agency — showed his paddy was procured at Rs 2,300 per quintal.
“On October 23, I sold 130 quintals of PR-131 paddy at Rs 2,130 per quintal through an arhtiya. When I checked the 'J' form, I found that my paddy was procured at Rs 2,300 per quintal. The full payment was deposited in my account, proving that the arhtiya cheated me,” he said.
“If this can happen to a scientist, the scale of cheating for other farmers must be higher. I urge the government to investigate this scam which may cost Haryana’s farmers in crores every season. The licences of such arhtiyas should be cancelled to protect the interest of farmers,” he stated.
He further alleged that the arhtiya later asked him to return the difference between the amount on the 'kachi slip' and the amount deposited in his account. He demanded an inquiry to identify any larger network involved in such fraudulent activities.
He urged farmers to remain vigilant and refrain from returning the difference between the MSP credited to their accounts and the lower rates on the slips.
Saurabh Choudhary, District Marketing Enforcement Officer (DMEO), said the farmers could file their complaint with them and action would be taken. He also appealed to the farmers not to return the difference.
