On March 16, during a session in the Rajya Sabha, Congress President and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge expressed serious concerns regarding a growing LPG crisis attributed to the ongoing conflict in West Asia. He articulated that the shortage of LPG cylinders is causing significant distress for households and businesses throughout the nation. Kharge emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that the LPG crisis has resulted in widespread chaos across India. He remarked, “I wish to draw the attention of this House to the LPG crisis prevailing in the country, caused by the ongoing conflict in West Asia.”

Impact on Households and Businesses

Kharge detailed how this crisis specifically affects the poor and middle-class communities as well as various commercial entities. He stated, “The impact is severely affecting the poor and vulnerable sections of society, the middle class, ordinary households, restaurants, hostels, and commercial users alike.” Highlighting the country’s dependency on LPG imports, he noted that India relies on approximately 60 percent of its LPG needs from imports, with around 90 percent of those imports transiting through the Strait of Hormuz, making the nation susceptible to geopolitical disruptions.

Distress Across the Country

Kharge pointed out that the repercussions of the LPG shortage are felt nationwide, stressing the impact on small establishments such as roadside eateries, restaurants, and hostels. “Households are in distress. Small roadside eateries, restaurants, and hostels are bearing the brunt. Everything from community kitchens to charitable food centres has been forced to shut down,” he said. He also raised concerns regarding government assertions that there is no LPG shortage, noting that some businesses have resorted to purchasing cylinders at exorbitant prices. “It is a matter of concern that several establishments have curtailed or suspended operations. Some are resorting to buying cylinders at rates exceeding Rs 5,000 per cylinder,” he remarked.

Call for Accountability

Moreover, Kharge criticized the government for allegedly failing to anticipate the crisis and for not taking proactive measures for LPG imports. He questioned, “If the government was aware that LPG imports would face a crisis, why were no alternative arrangements put in place?” He urged the House to facilitate an in-depth discussion on the subject to address these pressing issues.

Nadda Defends Government’s Stance

In response to Kharge’s statements, Union Minister JP Nadda countered the claims made by the Opposition, accusing them of politicizing the situation. He alleged that a member of the Congress party was involved in hoarding cylinders and criticized the Opposition for inciting public unrest during difficult times. “This crisis is not due to India,” Nadda asserted. Additionally, he reminded Kharge of the procedural rules regarding time constraints during Zero Hour in the House. “The Leader of the Opposition should know this is Zero Hour, and one has to conclude speaking within three minutes. This rule is for everyone,” he stated.

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