Sari quality row: Government cracks down, orders sweeping probe

*Sari quality row: Government cracks down, orders sweeping probe**Probe intensified on instructions of Women &Child Development Minister Smt. Rajwade**Letter issued to Managing Director, Khadi and Village Industries Board**Strict action and replacement of defective Saris ordered*Raipur, 14 April 2026/ In a strong and swift response over the quality of Saris distributed to Anganwadi workers and helpers, the Chhattisgarh government has adopted zero-tolerance stance. Taking the matter seriously, Women and Child Development Minister Smt. Lakshmi Rajwade has ordered a detailed inquiry and time-bound investigation. Following the directions of Minister Smt. Rajwade, the Director of the Women and Child Development Department has issued a letter to the Managing Director of the Chhattisgarh Khadi and Village Industries Board, directing immediate necessary action. The letter clearly states that under the purchase order issued for sari distribution in the financial year 2024–25, complaints have been received from some districts regarding poor quality and deviation from prescribed standards.A departmental inquiry committee has already confirmed irregularities in certain locations, prompting authorities to fast-track action. The Board has now been directed to deploy a team of technical experts to conduct a fresh and comprehensive quality audit. Any deviation from standards will invite strict action against the responsible agencies and suppliers as per rules.In a decisive move, the government has also ordered the immediate withdrawal of all substandard saris and their replacement with quality-assured ones, ensuring that beneficiaries receive what they rightfully deserve.The department has further cautioned against misleading narratives and negative propaganda surrounding the issue, asserting that the government has taken full cognizance of the matter and is proceeding with complete transparency and accountability.