Don’t let the food-aid program go to waste

The Food Ministry’s initiative to provide rice for the ultra poor during the lean season is a welcome one.

The program, which allows cardholders to get rice at Tk10 per kilogram instead of the usual Tk34 to Tk36, is a great measure that caters to some of the most marginsalised in our society.

But it’s saddening to see that much of it is being misappropriated by ruling party men for their own greedy benefits, resulting in the program’s efforts going in vain.

What is worse is that the dealers themselves have been found to be selling the rice at higher prices, and giving it to the more affluent sections of society. On top of which, they have continued to measure the rice in buckets instead of using digital machines.

Such gross misconduct of government funds, to help poor people no less, is regretful.

The prime minister herself has warned against irregularities in the scheme. The authorities would do well to heed her words and ensure that the rice reaches those in need of the program’s various benefits through proper surveillance of the distribution of the rice and by prosecuting those who have carried out these underhanded tactics.

It is a matter of great shame to see such a noble endeavour be plagued by corruption and, ultimately, go to waste. This program will go a long way in helping the most vulnerable in our country survive in the toughest of periods.

We urge the authorities to take the actions necessary so that the program is allowed to serve its rightful purpose.