Serious Allegations Surface Over MLA’s Family Availing PG Ration Benefits in Tripura

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, March 3, 2026

A major controversy has erupted in Tripura following allegations that a sitting BJP MLA Swapna Majumdar and her family have been availing benefits under the Priority Group (PG) ration scheme, raising serious questions about adherence to the National Food Security Act (NFSA) norms.According to documents accessed from reliable sources, the ration card in question is registered under Radhanagar ration shop. The card reportedly includes three family members, the MLA Swapna Majumdar, her husband Ashim Majumdar, and their daughter Hrittika Majumdar.Notably, under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), Priority Group (PG) ration cards are meant for economically weaker sections who are not covered under Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) but still require food security support. Beneficiaries are entitled to receive 5 kilograms of food grains per person per month either free or at highly subsidized rates.The scheme is implemented across India and monitored in Tripura by the state Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Department.Critics argue that public representatives receiving government salaries and allowances may not qualify under income-based food security schemes meant for financially weaker citizens.Furthermore, it is being alleged that after becoming an MLA in 2023, the ration card under the Priority Group category should have been surrendered if income eligibility criteria were no longer met.The issue has triggered political reactions, with opposition CPIM voices demanding a thorough investigation into the matter. They assert that welfare schemes under the NFSA must remain strictly for eligible low-income families and should not be accessed by individuals holding constitutional or salaried public offices if they exceed income thresholds.

As of now, there has been no official clarification from the MLA or the state government regarding these allegations.

The controversy has reignited debate over transparency in beneficiary identification under welfare schemes. It also raises broader concerns about periodic verification of eligibility and whether automated systems adequately flag changes in income or public office status.Observers say the matter warrants administrative review to maintain public trust in the food security framework.

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