The Lokayukta has initiated a suo motu inquiry into alleged irregularities in the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department and the Karnataka State Co-operative Food and Civil Supplies Corporation (KSCFCSC), following inspections that uncovered multiple instances of alleged malpractice in the State’s Public Distribution System (PDS).

As part of the inquiry, 27 inspection teams conducted checks at various KSCFCSC wholesale depots and TAPCMS godowns across the State. The inspections reportedly revealed several irregularities and administrative lapses in the storage and distribution of essential commodities.

After examining the inspection reports, the Lokayukta directed the Principal Secretary of the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department, the Commissioner of the department, the Managing Director and General Manager of KSCFCSC, and other senior officials to appear before the authority.

The inquiry focused on alleged misuse in the distribution of essential commodities under the PDS, administrative failures, financial loss to the State exchequer, and denial of entitled benefits to eligible beneficiaries.

Following the hearing, the Lokayukta ordered the formation of a high-level committee to recommend long-term systemic reforms, preventive measures, and disciplinary action wherever necessary.

The committee will be chaired by Harsha Gupta, Principal Secretary, Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms. Its members include Manish Kharbikar, Additional Director-General of Police, Karnataka Lokayukta, and Kanagavalli, Secretary, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department.

The committee has been directed to examine the irregularities identified during the inquiry, suggest measures to strengthen the functioning of the PDS, and recommend safeguards to prevent similar administrative lapses in the future. It has been asked to submit its report by August 20.

Published - July 18, 2026 07:23 pm IST