The Supreme Court has ordered a CBI investigation into a ₹3,200 crore foodgrain scam in Bihar, exposing massive corruption in the PDS system. This landmark move could reshape welfare delivery and political accountability in India.

Supreme Court Orders CBI Probe into ₹3,200 Crore Bihar Foodgrain Scam

In a landmark decision on 26 June 2025, the Supreme Court of India ordered a court-monitored probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into a multi-crore foodgrain distribution scam in Bihar. Estimated at over ₹3,200 crore, the scam has exposed deep-rooted corruption within the Public Distribution System (PDS), which is intended to supply subsidized food to millions of families below the poverty line.

Bench Slams Bihar Government Over Systemic Corruption

A bench led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud and Justices B.V. Nagarathna and Manoj Misra criticized the Bihar government’s failure to prevent massive leakages. The court was responding to a batch of PILs submitted by whistleblowers and social activists, who revealed how foodgrains meant for poor households were allegedly siphoned off by a nexus of corrupt officials, middlemen, and politicians.

Scam Mechanics: Fake Ration Cards and Ghost Beneficiaries

Petitioners presented shocking details: widespread use of fake ration cards, registration of ghost beneficiaries, and deliberate underreporting of foodgrain stocks. Independent investigations confirmed that many ration shops functioned only on paper, forcing poor families to either pay market rates or go hungry.

Right to Food as a Constitutional Guarantee

In a powerful statement, the court emphasized, “The right to food is an integral facet of the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution.” The bench noted the complete breakdown of Bihar’s internal vigilance mechanisms and stressed that only an independent, court-supervised probe could bring real accountability.

Political Fallout: Nitish Kumar Government Under Fire

The revelations have embarrassed the ruling coalition, led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who has long touted success in welfare delivery. While his office has assured full cooperation with the CBI, the opposition has seized the moment, accusing the government of providing political cover for years of unchecked corruption.

What Happens Next: Supreme Court’s Directive to the CBI

The Supreme Court has directed the CBI to file an FIR within seven days and submit its first progress report within three months. The investigation will include officials from the Food and Civil Supplies Department, local supply officers, and any political figures involved. Notably, the CBI has been authorized to arrest and question suspects without prior state government approval.

Call for Reform: Fixing the Welfare Delivery System

This case has sparked nationwide discussions on the need for reform in welfare distribution. Experts argue that technology-driven solutions—such as Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT) and biometric authentication—are crucial to eliminate fraud and ensure benefits reach the intended recipients.

Conclusion: A Turning Point for Accountability and Governance

The Bihar foodgrain scam is more than a regional issue—it’s a test case for India’s commitment to transparency and good governance. The Supreme Court’s order offers a beacon of hope to the thousands of affected families, affirming that the justice system can still safeguard their rights when state mechanisms falter.