Irregularities alleged in VGD rice distribution in Kalapara

Md Nahidul Haque, Kalapara (Patuakhali)

There have been allegations of taking money in the distribution of government VGD rice in Kalapara Upazila of the district.

On Tuesday morning, allegations of irregularities were received during the distribution of VGD rice in Mithaganj Union of the upazila. Rice distribution tokens were given to beneficiaries subject to collection of Tk 1,500 to Tk 2,000 per person. This incident has happened more or less in almost every ward of that union. The beneficiaries alleged that both male and female UP members took this money. However, the UP members claimed that all the allegations were false.

Beneficiaries of various wards including Nasima, Poli Begum and Hasan Sikder of Ward No. 1 said that each of them gave Tk 1,500 to Tk 2,000 to their ward members. They said that they were forced to give money as rice tokens were not given without money.

When asked about it on the phone, UP Member Noor Alam of local Ward No. 1 denied all the allegations and said that no money was taken from anyone for VGD rice.

Tag Officer and Upazila Public Health Officer Md Ziaul Haque Jasim said, “VGD rice was distributed to 265 beneficiaries in Mithaganj Union and 1105 people were given Eid-ul-Azha gift rice. However, the beneficiaries did not complain to me about taking money.”

Mithaganj UP Chairman Mezbah Uddin Dulal said that the rice was distributed in a beautiful and healthy environment. He said that no one complained to him about taking money.

Kalapara Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md Rabiul Islam said, “There is no opportunity to take money in VGD rice distribution. Legal action will be taken after investigation if a written complaint is received in this connection.”