Bombay HC Disposes PIL On Mid-Day Meal Food Grain Scam, Cites Ongoing FIR Probe

Mumbai: The Bombay High Court on Monday disposed of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning an alleged scam in the distribution of food grains under the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, noting that a First Information Report (FIR) has been lodged and an investigation is underway.

A bench of Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice MS Karnik noted that the allegations in the PIL were serious, but disposed of the plea in view of the pending FIR.

The PIL by Bharat Thakkar alleged a scam in the distribution of food grains supplied. It alleged that the grains supplied were misappropriated from eligible schools, causing huge losses to the government. The plea sought action against those involved in the scam and prayed for the implementation of the mid-day meals scheme.

State advocate informed the bench that an FIR has been registered under the provisions of the Indian Penal Code for criminal breach of trust by a public servant or by banker, merchant or agent; and Cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property. The state advocate said that the investigation is in progress and a chargesheet will soon be filed.

The bench took note of it and said that allegations in the petition need to be investigated meticulously and chargesheet needs to be filed expeditiously.