Illegal Paddy Smuggling Foiled in Kalahandi | 32 Quintals Seized by Police

Kalahandi: Police in Kalahandi district foiled an illegal paddy smuggling attempt in Karlamunda block’s Abujabahala village on Wednesday.

Acting on a tip-off, Risida outpost officer Manua Bidika intercepted a pickup 407 vehicle carrying 32 quintals and 68 kilograms of paddy.

The officer immediately alerted the supply department, following which a team led by Assistant District Supply Officer Sonali Khara, Bhawanipatna Municipal Supply Officer Pratibha Pradhan, Karlamunda Supply Inspector Smritiranjan Jena, and Narla Supply Inspector Prashant Srichandan reached the spot.

Authorities seized the vehicle (registration number OD-03D-2785) and stored the confiscated grain at Lakshmi Narayan Rice Mill in Gajabahala. The vehicle owner was identified as Harekrushna Sahu of Abujabahala village.

The sudden raid has sparked panic among local traders, many of whom are suspected of bypassing government procurement channels.

Officials stressed that such illegal activities undermine the state’s procurement system and warned of stricter action against offenders.

This crackdown highlights growing concerns over illegal paddy smuggling in Kalahandi, a region where traders often attempt to exploit loopholes in the procurement process.