Kharge Accuses BJP of Looting Public Grain in Madhya Pradesh Ethanol Scam

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging that the ruling party is involved in a scam related to ethanol production in Madhya Pradesh. Speaking at a press conference, Kharge claimed that the BJP government has been diverting food grains meant for the public to produce ethanol, effectively stealing from the people.

“The public’s rightful grain is being looted,” Kharge said, citing reports of irregularities in the procurement and use of grains for ethanol manufacturing. He accused the state government of bypassing regulations to favour certain private players, leading to losses for farmers and consumers.

The Congress leader demanded a thorough investigation by central agencies, stating that the scam had deprived the poor of subsidised food grains under the Public Distribution System. He also questioned the BJP’s commitment to food security and farmers’ welfare.

In response, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan dismissed the allegations as baseless and politically motivated. He asserted that all ethanol production follows government guidelines and that the BJP government has always prioritised farmers’ interests. The state’s Food and Civil Supplies Minister also denied any irregularities, challenging Kharge to provide concrete evidence.

The controversy comes amid a nationwide debate over the diversion of food grains for ethanol blending, with some experts warning that it could impact food security. The central government has set ambitious targets for ethanol blending in petrol, but critics argue that it may lead to shortages of grains for human consumption.

As the political slugfest continues, the issue is likely to feature prominently in the upcoming assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, due later this year.