New Delhi, Mar 16: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday raised concerns in the Rajya Sabha over an alleged shortage of LPG cylinders in the country, accusing the government of failing to take timely steps to prevent the crisis and curb black marketing.
Responding to the remarks, Union Minister and Leader of the House J. P. Nadda said the Opposition was trying to create panic and “bring anarchy in the country” instead of supporting the government during a difficult situation.
Raising the issue during Zero Hour in the Rajya Sabha, Kharge, who is also the Leader of the Opposition in the House, said the LPG situation following the ongoing conflict in West Asia has caused distress across several parts of the country.
He said the situation is affecting the poor, middle-class families, restaurants, hostels and commercial users who depend on LPG for daily use.
Kharge argued that when tensions in West Asia escalated, the government had issued advisories to Indian citizens and was aware that energy supplies could be affected. However, he alleged that adequate preparations were not made in advance, which has led to difficulties in many sectors.
He further claimed that the crisis reflects poor management and weaknesses in the government’s approach, adding that reports suggest LPG cylinders are being sold in the black market for as much as ₹5,000 per cylinder.
Kharge urged the government to take immediate and strict action to control the situation and ensure LPG cylinders are available to the public and small traders at affordable prices.
He also pointed out that the Union petroleum minister had earlier stated in the Lok Sabha that there was no shortage of LPG in the country and advised people not to believe rumours, but said the situation on the ground appears different.
Replying to the criticism, Nadda said it was unfortunate that the Opposition, particularly the Congress party, was politicising the issue even during a challenging period.
“They are instigating the peaceful people of the country… in a crisis situation, instead of standing with the country, they are trying to bring anarchy,” he said. (Agency)
