Kolkata, December 22, 2025:
The West Bengal M.R. Dealers’ Association has raised serious concerns over the growing crisis in the state’s ration distribution system, alleging policy lapses, financial distress, and administrative hurdles that are pushing ration dealers to the brink and affecting millions of beneficiaries across the state.
In a strongly worded memorandum, the Association stated that ration dealers are being forced to operate under mounting losses due to inadequate commissions, delayed payments, and rising operational costs. According to the Association, the present commission structure—₹75 per quintal for wheat distribution and a one-time additional ₹5,000—has become grossly insufficient in the face of inflation, transportation expenses, manpower costs, and mandatory digital compliance.
Allegations of Systematic Harassment
The Association alleged that under the pretext of “clean ration management,” a section of officials has initiated what it describes as excessive inspections and punitive actions, leading to humiliation, financial losses, and fear among ration dealers. It claimed that such measures are undermining the very foundation of the Public Distribution System (PDS) and discouraging honest dealers from continuing operations.
Legal Action and State-Level Engagement
To safeguard both consumers and dealers, the Association has already moved the Hon’ble Supreme Court seeking intervention to prevent disruption of ration distribution. Simultaneously, it has reiterated its commitment to cooperating with the state government to ensure uninterrupted supply of subsidised food grains to beneficiaries.
The Association announced that a formal charter of demands has been submitted to the Hon’ble Chief Minister of West Bengal through the State Committee, urging immediate policy corrections.
Key Demands Put Forward
Among the major demands highlighted are:
- Continuation of Home Delivery of Rations in the interest of the general public, particularly the elderly and vulnerable sections.
- Revision of Commission Structure, including an increase in NFSA commission from ₹90 to ₹200 and home delivery commission to ₹300 per quintal.
- Timely and Full Disbursement of Additional Allowances, including pending dues since August 2022.
- Simplification of Government Orders to ensure accurate weighing and smooth distribution at ration shops.
- Strengthening Digital Infrastructure, including improved e-POS systems, smart weighing machines, and 24-hour grievance redressal mechanisms.
- Increase in Monthly Food Grain Allocation to address nutritional needs and population growth.
- Protection of Dealers from Arbitrary Actions, and an immediate halt to what the Association termed as “harassment drives” that damage the credibility of ration dealers.
Impact on Public Welfare
The Association warned that if corrective steps are not taken urgently, the sustainability of the ration distribution network in West Bengal could be severely compromised, ultimately hurting millions of beneficiaries who depend on subsidised food grains for survival.
Reaffirming its stand, the West Bengal M.R. Dealers’ Association said it remains committed to protecting the rights of ration dealers while ensuring food security for the people of Bengal. It urged both the state and central governments to engage in constructive dialogue and implement reforms that strengthen, rather than weaken, the public distribution system.
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