Concerns Raised Over LPG Crisis in India Amid Ongoing Middle East Conflicts

In the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, the leader of the opposition and president of the Congress party, expressed his worries regarding the escalating LPG crisis in India, attributed to the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. Speaking on Monday, Kharge highlighted that the shortage of LPG cylinders is causing significant distress for households and businesses across the nation. He stated, “I wish to draw the attention of this house to the LPG crisis that has arisen due to the conflicts in West Asia, which has led to widespread chaos throughout the country.”

 

Kharge pointed out that this crisis is severely impacting not only poor and middle-class families but also various commercial establishments. He noted that the repercussions are being felt equally by the underprivileged, middle-class households, restaurants, hostels, and other commercial users. He explained that India imports approximately 60% of its LPG needs, with around 90% of this import passing through the Strait of Hormuz, making the country vulnerable to geopolitical instability.

 

According to Kharge, the effects of this crisis are being felt in nearly every region of the country. Families are struggling, and small eateries, restaurants, and hostels are among the hardest hit. Community kitchens and charitable food centers have been forced to shut down. He also questioned the government's claim that there is no shortage of LPG, revealing that some establishments are reportedly purchasing cylinders at exorbitant prices. It is alarming that many businesses have reduced their operations or closed entirely, with some paying over ₹5,000 per cylinder.

 

Kharge further accused the government of failing to anticipate the crisis and not making alternative arrangements for LPG imports. He asked, “If the government was aware that it would face an LPG import crisis, why were alternative arrangements not made?” He urged the house to allow for a detailed discussion on this pressing issue. In response to Kharge's remarks, Union Minister JP Nadda criticized the opposition for politicizing the matter. Nadda mentioned that a Congress leader was caught hoarding cylinders and accused them of inciting the peaceful public. He lamented that the opposition, particularly Congress, continues to engage in politics even during challenging times, asserting that this crisis is not a result of India's actions. Nadda also reminded Kharge about the procedural rules of zero hour in the house, stating that the opposition leader should be aware that he must conclude his speech within three minutes, a rule applicable to all.