Despite CM’s Focus, Some Officials Allegedly Aid Jowar Brokers
Article Today, Hyderabad:
Markfed Allegedly Becomes Hub of Corruption
Markfed has allegedly become a center for corruption, with some officials reportedly siding with brokers who are exploiting farmers. A nexus of kickbacks and illegal transactions is allegedly thriving in Jowar procurement across several markets, including Adilabad, Nirmal, and Bhainsa, severely impacting farmers. Brokers are reportedly making substantial profits by bringing Jowar from Andhra Pradesh and selling it at MSP in Telangana, while Markfed officials allegedly remain silent, raising suspicions of their involvement.
Brokers Allegedly Looting Rs.1,000 per Quintal with Official Support
Brokers in markets like Guntur, Chilakaluripeta, and Tenali in Andhra Pradesh are reportedly buying Jowar for a mere Rs.2,000 per quintal. This same grain is then allegedly transported to Telangana and sold through Markfed at the MSP of Rs.3,371 per quintal, allowing brokers to pocket over Rs.1,000 per quintal in profit. Farmers are questioning the silence of Markfed officials regarding this blatant exploitation, suspecting a larger conspiracy and the potential enrichment of some officials.
Markfed Allegedly Betraying Farmers’ Trust
Markfed, which is meant to be a support system for farmers, is allegedly acting in favor of brokers. Concerns are mounting about how thousands of tonnes of Jowar from other states are being procured at MSP in Telangana. Farmers believe this is impossible without the backing of officials. The alleged lack of proper inspections at procurement centers and the failure to scrutinize farmers’ details are seen as evidence of corruption. Farmers claim that brokers are using their Aadhaar cards and passbooks to sell Jowar, with officials turning a blind eye, suggesting a deeper level of complicity.
Brokers Allegedly Exploiting Early Harvest and Official Inaction
The alleged scam reportedly began when Jowar crops were harvested in March, but procurement centers were not immediately established, leaving farmers in financial distress. Brokers allegedly capitalized on this situation, buying Jowar from farmers for Rs.2,000 to Rs.2,300 per quintal. After Markfed started procurement in 608 centers on May 1st, both farmers and brokers began selling. However, the rule allowing farmers to sell up to 14 quintals per acre is allegedly being misused by brokers using farmers’ documents. Sources suggest that Markfed officials and procurement center in-charges are also involved in this scheme.
Andhra Pradesh Brokers Allegedly Part of the Illegal Network
Along with local brokers, traders from various districts of Andhra Pradesh, where government procurement centers are reportedly absent, are also allegedly participating in this exploitation. Having purchased Jowar at lower prices in their state (around Rs.2,000 per quintal), these traders are reportedly selling it in Telangana’s Markfed centers under the guise of local farmers. An official from Adilabad and another from Hyderabad are reportedly playing pivotal roles in this operation, raising questions about the extent of official involvement.
Farmers Demand Action Against Corrupted Officials and Brokers
Farmers are demanding immediate and stringent action against the brokers and officials who are allegedly misusing government funds and exploiting their hard work. They are urging for comprehensive inspections at Markfed procurement centers to uncover the full extent of this corruption. Farmers, who are already facing economic hardship, are calling for the swift punishment of those who are profiting from their vulnerability.
