Maharashtra government today said it will invoke the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against officials and those involved in cases of misappropriation of food grains.

Food and Civil Supplies Minister Girish Bapat announced the decision during Question Hour at the Legislative Council. He also announced suspension 16 officers, who were allegedly involved in the misappropriation of the food grains at ration shops. The government will form teams to check such cases, he added.