Odisha: 3 trucks with paddy seized near Bengal

By Kishan Sahu

Authorities in Odisha seized three trucks loaded with paddy while they were attempting to enter the state from West Bengal through Lakshmannath toll plaza in Balasore district on Thursday. According to officials, the crackdown comes in the wake of Odisha’s recent hike in the State Minimum Price (SMP) of paddy to Rs 3,100, which has triggered attempts by traders to smuggle paddy from neighbouring West Bengal to sell at higher rates.

To curb this illegal inflow, multiple checkpoints have been set up along Jaleswar border and three mobile enforcement teams have been deployed for round-the-clock monitoring.

Acting on prior intelligence, a joint enforcement team led by Balasore district supply officer Narasingha Panda and Jaleswar enforcement officials intercepted the trucks. The vehicles were found carrying 1,800 bags of paddy weighing around 900 quintals.

The seized consignment has been deposited at the Food Corporation of India (FCI) warehouse in Jaleswar. Officials confirmed that the drivers and helpers of the trucks have been detained for questioning. The operation was conducted with the participation of Balasore Sadar supply inspector Sushanta Sahu, Jaleswar supply inspector Avantika Sahu, and a nine-member enforcement team.

This article has been republished from The Times of India.