Odisha villagers intercept vehicle carrying MDM rice, school headmistress under scanner

The School and Mass Education Department on Friday initiated an investigation after villagers in Athagarh intercepted a vehicle allegedly transporting mid-day meal (MDM) rice from a government school under suspicious circumstances.

The incident occurred at Chaogaon Government Upper Primary School under the Athgarh block of Cuttack district. According to sources, villagers spotted the suspicious vehicle this morning, loaded with eight sacks of MDM rice. When they stopped the vehicle and questioned the driver about the destination of the rice, he reportedly failed to offer a satisfactory explanation.

Upon further probing, villagers learned that the rice was being taken on the instructions of the school’s headmistress, raising concerns about possible misuse or illegal sale of government-provided MDM supplies.

The situation led to tension in the village as residents gathered at the spot, demanding accountability.

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Following the uproar, the Assistant Block Education Officer (ABEO) reached the scene and began an on-the-spot enquiry. Discussions were held with the school management committee and the headmistress to ascertain where and why the rice was being transported.

The ABEO stated that a detailed investigation is underway to determine whether any irregularities or misappropriation of MDM rice has taken place. He further assured that strict action will be taken against the headmistress or any other staff member found guilty of wrongdoing.

“The BEO called me and directed me to enquire about the MDM scam, as he is in Bhubaneswar right now. After the enquiry, I saw a vehicle packed with around 8 packets stationed outside the school premises. I will talk to the Headmistress of the school and understand how and why the packets are loaded in the vehicle,” stated ABEO, Ranjit Kumar Mohanty.