Thiruvananthapuram: A Vigilance inquiry will be initiated into the printing and distribution of fake priority ration cards. The case involves hacking into the Food Department’s online Ration Card Management System to create and distribute fake cards. Two accused had already been arrested by the Vanchiyoor Police.
The Food Department has recommended a Vigilance probe to verify whether department officials were involved. Food Minister G. R. Anil has forwarded the file and recommendation to the Chief Minister. Once the CM’s office issues orders, a special team will take over the investigation.
Over several months, around 146 fake priority cards were distributed in Beemapally and Poonthura, charging ₹2,500–₹3,000 per card. Beemapally ration shop owner Sahad Khan and computer centre owner Haseeb Khan were arrested earlier.
The fraud shocked the department, as it involved hacking passwords and database details from within the department’s network. The scammers bypassed the strenuous procedures required for legitimate priority cards by manipulating the online system.
Suspicion arose when some cardholders received unusual SMS alerts, leading to the detection of the fraud. The details are believed to have been leaked from the Thiruvananthapuram City Rationing Office. The Vigilance probe is expected to uncover those behind the operation.
