ED investigates food department officials in Kolkata Ration Distribution corruption case

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has once again turned its attention to State Food Department officials in the high-profile ration distribution corruption case in West Bengal. The probe focuses on the recovery of original seals and stamps of the Food Department found at the residence of ration businessman Bakibur Rehman, the initial arrestee in this case. ED officials are actively searching for the Food Department employees and officers who provided these seals to Bakibur.

The central agency is perplexed about how the arrested businessman acquired the state government's log-in ID and password, granting him access to the credit of subordinate offices under the Food and Supplies Department. The seized seals include those of the West Bengal Essential Commodities Supplies Corporation Limited and various officials within the Food and Supplies Department.

The recovery of these seals and the revelation that Bakibur had access to crucial log-in credentials underscore the influence and clout he wielded in the department. ED officials suggest that such dominance is unlikely without the support of higher officials. Additionally, the ED has identified Bakibur Rehman's connections with a network of packaged flour marketing entities, indicating his involvement in selling flour through the public distribution system.