The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court resolved a sua motu plea regarding the ongoing shortage of cooking gas on Tuesday. The Union government informed the court that it is actively monitoring and addressing the situation through various channels. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta represented the Centre and explained that the circumstances surrounding the gas crisis are fluid due to international factors. He asserted that it may not be appropriate for such issues to be deliberated in court.

Government Assurances on National Supply

Mehta assured the court that the Indian government is implementing all necessary measures to mitigate any adverse effects on domestic supply stemming from global disruptions. He stated, “The Government of India is monitoring the situation and taking all remedial actions to ensure that such crises at the international level do not affect our country.” He emphasized that the dynamic nature of the situation makes it essential for the government to take both domestic and international actions in the best interest of its citizens. The Solicitor General also mentioned that any local irregularities, such as lapses by distributors, are being addressed rigorously by relevant authorities, with corrective actions being taken where necessary.

Court’s Remarks on Jurisdictional Limitations

The bench, comprising Justices Anil S. Kilor and Raj D. Wakode, heard the matter initiated on its own accord, prompted by media reports detailing the shortages of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders. Prior to this hearing, the court had issued notices to several entities, including the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, the Food and Supplies Department of the Maharashtra government, the Nagpur district collector, along with public sector oil companies such as Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum.

Bench Dismisses Related Petitions

Upon reviewing the submissions and affidavit from the Centre, the court concluded that the issue involves complexities that extend beyond its limited jurisdiction and is more appropriately managed by both Union and state governments for the public good. The bench remarked, “Nothing survives,” while proceeding to dismiss the plea. Additionally, the court quashed a connected petition brought forth by six LPG distributors seeking an increase in the supply of domestic cylinders amid the energy crisis linked to ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Iran.

Government’s Commitment to Public Interest

In its ruling, the court documented the government’s commitment to safeguarding public interest, stressing that it will ensure the availability of essential resources amid ongoing challenges in the energy sector.

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