Bargarh: Amid the ongoing rabi paddy procurement process in Odisha, allegations of illegal transportation of paddy from Chhattisgarh into the state have surfaced. Two trucks loaded with paddy were intercepted near Jagdalpur under Jharbandh block on Tuesday night by Padampur Sub-Collector Hemasagar Bhoi.

According to reports, the administration had received information about illegal paddy being transported from the Chhattisgarh border areas towards Padampur. Acting on the tip-off, Sub-Collector Bhoi personally conducted a late-night raid in the area.

During the operation, two trucks carrying paddy were stopped and inspected near Jagdalpur. The truck drivers reportedly admitted that the paddy had been brought from the Basna area of Chhattisgarh.

Officials from the supply department were sent to the spot on Wednesday morning for further inspection and investigation. The Sub-Collector said that strict action would be taken after a proper inquiry.

The raid by the administration has been welcomed by locals, as the illegal inflow of paddy from outside the state during the procurement season is believed to affect the rights and interests of Odisha farmers.