BJP Alleges Anna Bhagya Rice Smuggled to Dubai, Singapore

• BJP alleges Karnataka's Anna Bhagya rice, meant for the poor, is being smuggled to Dubai and Singapore after being polished and repackaged, selling for up to Rs 150/kilo.
• Senior BJP leader CT Ravi demanded an SIT to probe the alleged international black-market trade, while the Congress government stated an inquiry is ongoing and denied international export claims.
• Multiple instances of rice diversion have been reported, including a September raid in Gangavathi where 60 tonnes were seized, with evidence of export to Dubai, France, and Singapore.
• Further seizures include over 13,000 kg of PDS rice in Udupi and 779 kg transported illegally in Ponnampet, highlighting ongoing issues with the scheme.

Why It Matters: Alleged smuggling of free rice for the poor threatens a vital welfare scheme.