The Enforcement Directorate carried out fresh raids at multiple locations in West Bengal on Saturday as part of its ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities in the Public Distribution System (PDS). The action comes at a politically sensitive time, with the state currently in the middle of assembly election. The agency confirmed that the searches are linked to a money laundering probe associated with the diversion of wheat meant for welfare schemes.

According to officials, the raids were conducted at around nine premises connected to suppliers and exporters. These locations were spread across Kolkata, Burdwan, and Habra. The case, commonly referred to as the “Bengal ration scam case,” originates from a police FIR filed in October 2020 in Basirhat. The complaint was lodged by a deputy commissioner of customs at a land customs station, who alleged large-scale diversion of wheat that was meant to be distributed under welfare schemes.

The investigation focuses on how foodgrains intended for the Public Distribution System were allegedly siphoned off before reaching beneficiaries. The ED stated that its probe has uncovered a structured and well-planned system used by the accused to carry out this diversion. The agency explained the method in its official statement, saying, “Investigation revealed that the accused adopted a systematic modus operandi to divert Public Distribution System (PDS) wheat meant for welfare beneficiaries. The wheat was procured at low prices through unauthorised channels, in collusion with suppliers, licensed distributors, dealers, and middlemen.”

Officials further revealed that large quantities of wheat were removed from the official supply chain and stored at different locations. This process allowed the accused to accumulate stock without raising immediate suspicion. The ED noted that once collected, the wheat was manipulated to hide its origin and then sold or exported as legitimate goods.

The agency also detailed how the accused attempted to conceal the identity of the diverted foodgrains. It said that the original gunny bags, which carried markings of the Food Corporation of India (FCI) and the state government, were either removed or reversed. The wheat was then repacked into other bags to eliminate any traceable markings. This step helped the accused pass off the PDS wheat as regular stock meant for open market sale or export, thereby masking its actual source.

The ED’s investigation into the case has already led to several arrests. Among those taken into custody earlier is former West Bengal food minister Jyoti Priya Mallick, along with other individuals allegedly linked to the scam. The probe continues to expand as the agency examines financial transactions and the involvement of various stakeholders in the supply chain.

The timing of these fresh raids has drawn attention, as they come just days before the second phase of voting in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, scheduled for April 29. The first phase of polling was completed on April 23. While the ED has not directly linked the raids to the election schedule, the developments have added to the ongoing political atmosphere in the state.

The case highlights concern over the misuse of resources meant for public welfare and raises questions about the integrity of distribution systems. The Public Distribution System is designed to provide essential food items at subsidised rates to eligible beneficiaries, making any diversion a serious issue with direct impact on vulnerable sections of society.

As the investigation progresses, the ED is expected to continue its efforts to track the flow of diverted goods and identify all individuals involved in the alleged network. The latest searches are part of a broader attempt to gather evidence and strengthen the case under the provisions of money laundering laws.

The situation remains under close watch, especially with the state in the midst of elections. Further developments in the case are likely as the agency continues its probe into what it describes as a large-scale and organised operation involving multiple actors across the supply chain.