Harish Rao Alleges Rice Export Scam to Philippines in Assembly

Hyderabad, March 23: BRS MLA and former minister Harish Rao criticized Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy, alleging that he provided false information regarding rice transportation. He claimed there was a scam involving the shipment of rice to the Philippines.

Rao objected to the appointment of Prem Chand Garg, who reportedly faces CBI and ED cases, as a consultant. During the assembly’s Question Hour, Harish questioned the government about Garg’s current whereabouts.

“Were tenders called for the export of rice? The government must explain why a private company was given the contract on a nomination basis instead of granting permission to NAFED. Is it true or not that 7,500 tons of rice are currently at Kakinada port? Are warehouse and maintenance charges being paid at that port or not?” Rao asked.

He further asserted that the rice transport scam has caused a loss to the state treasury and demanded the formation of a House Committee to investigate the matter, requesting to be included as a member.