Govt recalls its order of de-listing 'non-swadeshi' items from CAPF canteens

The order issued by Central Police Canteen (CPC) in-charge DIG Reema read, "The letter is hereby recalled with immediate effect to re-scrutinize the lists of products under different categories."

New Delhi: The Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandar (KPKB) has recalled its previous order of de-listing 1026 items of various companies with immediate effect to re-scrutinize the list of products under different categories.

The order issued by Central Police Canteen (CPC) in-charge DIG Reema read, "The letter is hereby recalled with immediate effect to re-scrutinize the lists of products under different categories." The official order was issued on June 2, 2020, seen by ETV Bharat.

On May 29, the Centre had issued an order to remove non-swadeshi (imported) products being sold at Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) canteens but it was withdrawn by the government on Monday as products of many Indian companies were also included in the list.

"This is clarified that the list issued by Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandar on 29th may 2020 regarding delisting of certain product has been erroneously issued at the level of CEO. The list has been withdrawn and action is being initiated for the lapse," said CRPF DG AP Maheshwari in a statement.

Meanwhile, sources in the Home Ministry told ETV Bharat that the officer responsible for preparing the wrong list to de-list the imported items is likely to be removed from his post and will be sent back to CRPF.

All products being sold at CPC were categorised into three groups. The order said category 1 and 2 will be allowed to be on KPKB inventory for sale, through KPKB canteens whereas products falling under category 3 will be de-listed from June 1.

Almost 50 lakh family members of 10 lakh personnel serving in CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP, SSB, NSG and Assam Rifles buy products from the Central Police canteens.