In Gujarat, ration shop owners have started a strike due to issues related to grain distribution and e-KYC processes. The strike began on Sunday after a meeting of the Gujarat Fair Price Shops and Kerosene License Holders Association. They decided not to distribute food grains from June 1 unless their demands are met. The association claims that the government has not effectively handled the e-KYC process, which is critical for ration card holders. They argue that pressure from the government will not help complete this process. The owners are prepared to take legal action if the situation does not improve.
Currently, over 85% of ration card holders have completed their e-KYC, according to the state’s Food and Civil Supplies Department. However, the remaining holders are urged to complete the process from home using the My Ration app or by visiting local offices. Despite the government’s claims, shop owners remain firm in their decision to strike. They held discussions on various issues affecting their operations during a recent meeting in Ahmedabad.
The association’s president, Prahlad Modi, criticized the government’s inaccurate statistics regarding the e-KYC completion rate. He insisted that the government should complete the e-KYC process by visiting households, similar to how they manage elections. Modi expressed frustration over the government’s handling of this important task.
The government argues that e-KYC is essential to ensure that the needy receive timely access to food grains. This initiative is part of the National Food Security Act (NFSA), which mandates states to ensure food security through efficient distribution systems. The ongoing strike highlights the challenges faced by both shop owners and the government in implementing these policies.
As the situation develops, shop owners are expected to continue their protest until their grievances are addressed. They are calling for a fair and transparent system that supports both the citizens relying on ration supplies and the shop owners facilitating this distribution.
This strike not only impacts the shop owners but also affects many families who depend on these rations for their daily needs. The upcoming days will be crucial as both parties seek a resolution to the ongoing issues. The outcome will determine how effectively Gujarat can maintain its ration distribution for the underprivileged citizens.
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