Ration Scam Probe, ‘Syndicate Raj’ Allegations Dominate West Bengal Poll Campaign

ED raids revive West Bengal ration scam probe as polls near, BJP targets TMC over alleged syndicate raj and corruption, TMC calls charges politically motivated.

The ration scam probe and syndicate raj allegations have emerged as key election issues in Bengal. (Image: PTI/File)

Allegations surrounding a ration scam and the persistence of an alleged “syndicate raj” have intensified the political battle in poll-bound West Bengal, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) trading sharp charges ahead of the Assembly elections.

The controversy over the public distribution system dates back to 2020, when alleged irregularities in the sale of subsidised food grains first surfaced. Reports suggested that essential commodities meant for beneficiaries were diverted to the open market and sold at higher prices. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) later took over the probe, leading to multiple arrests, including that of former minister Jyotipriya Mallick, who is currently out on bail and contesting the elections as a TMC candidate.

The investigation has gathered pace again in the run-up to the polls. On Friday, ED officials carried out raids at multiple locations across Kolkata, North 24 Parganas, Murshidabad and Howrah in connection with the case.

Parallel to the ration scam, the BJP has repeatedly flagged the issue of “syndicate raj,” alleging the existence of politically backed networks controlling construction materials and local contracts. The party claims such systems force people to buy supplies at inflated prices, fostering corruption and coercion.

PM Modi Attacks TMC Over Syndicate Raj

Addressing a rally in Asansol on April 9, Prime Minister Narendra Modi alleged, “The coal belt of Asansol is now ruled by TMC’s syndicate Raj. Those involved in illegal coal, sand and soil extraction have cast their stranglehold on people,” PM Modi said to the large gathering in Asansol, considered to be an industrial hub and known for its premium coal production and mining activities.

The TMC, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has dismissed the allegations as politically motivated, accusing the BJP of targeting the state ahead of elections.

With both sides sharpening their attacks, the ration scam probe and syndicate raj allegations have emerged as key election issues, shaping the narrative around governance, corruption and public trust in West Bengal.

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