Gate pass deletions of paddy spark concerns of procurement foul play

In a startling development, gate pass entries for nearly 90,000 quintals of paddy have reportedly been deleted across seven grain markets in Karnal district, raising suspicions of foul play during the paddy procurement process. Authorities have launched a probe to investigate potential discrepancies or irregularities, including fake gate passes or proxy procurement attempts.

According to an official, gate passes are generated for farmers upon arrival at the grain markets with their crops, though farmers also have the option to generate these passes independently. The highest number of deletions occurred in the Nissing grain market, where 772 gate passes covering 42,633 quintals were removed. Other affected markets include Nigdhu with 226 deletions (12,565 quintals), Indri with 211 (11,453 quintals), Taraori with 168 (9,435 quintals), Gharaunda with 134 (7,422 quintals), Karnal with 76 (4,560 quintals), and Assandh with 27 (1,568 quintals).

An official with the Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board (HSAMB) said some deletions might result from clerical errors or duplicate entries for individual farmers. However, the scale of the deletions has raised significant concerns. “Some deleted entries might have been fake and intended for illicit procurement but were removed when plans changed,” an official explained, urging a comprehensive investigation.

Issuance of fake gate passes has been a recurring issue, but deletions on this scale are unprecedented, indicating potential irregularities that require immediate attention.

By November 4, the district had recorded an arrival of 8,33,891 quintals of parmal paddy varieties, with 8,04,272 quintals already lifted — a decline from last year’s total of 9,74,612 quintals.

In response, a special team led by Assistant Commissioner Under Training (ACUT) Yogesh Saini has commenced physical verification of mills to identify discrepancies in the procurement process. “We are keeping a strict watch on both paddy procurement and gate pass issuance. The deletion of entries is being thoroughly investigated to determine the reasons,” said Yash Jaluka, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC).

Deputy Commissioner Uttam Singh also issued a stern warning: “Any discrepancy found at any level will be met with strict action. We will investigate all aspects to ensure no wrongdoing goes unchecked.”