Food and civil supplies minister U.T. Khader has denied any scam in the purchase of HIV kits by the AIDs prevention Society, when he was Health and Family Welfare Minister.
Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru on Wednesday, Mr Khader reacted to allegations made by former BJP Corporator Mr N.R. Ramesh, who had alleged that it was a Rs 600 crore scam and had claimed that the then Health Minister was also involved.
“All the purchases were made by the society as per guidelines of the Union government. I have not seen any violation. Since the BJP leader has leveled allegations against me, I will write to Health Minister Mr Ramesh Kumar to conduct an inquiry into it,'' Mr Khader said dismissing the charges.
On ration card distribution, he said the department was streamlining distribution of APL and BPL cards on the lines of passport issuance and furnishing Aadhaar card for this would be mandatory.
Aadhaar card holders can apply for BPL or APL cards from anywhere in the State. A software was being developed for this purpose. The cards of those, who fail to produce Aadhaar cards would be cancelled, he said. At the same time, PDS distributors have noted that there is no demand for wheat in the State. Instead of wheat, the department will distribute 5 kg rice per card. Those who wish to have three kg rice and two kg ragi, would continue in the old system, he added.
