The Aryavarth Express:
New Delhi: Sanjay Singh, Member of Parliament from the Aam Aadmi Party, on Tuesday submitted a notice under Rule 267 in the Rajya Sabha seeking suspension of regular business to discuss the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
In his notice, Singh warned that the escalating conflict — involving attacks by Israel and the United States and subsequent retaliation from Iran — could pose serious risks to India’s trade, economy, and energy security.
He noted that the tensions have disrupted maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global shipping route that carries nearly 20 percent of the world’s petroleum supply. Missile attacks on strategic hubs and threats to maritime lanes have increased instability around the region, raising concerns about global energy transportation.
Singh highlighted that India imports more than 85 percent of its crude oil needs, with a significant share coming from West Asia. According to him, nearly half of India’s crude oil imports pass through the Strait of Hormuz, along with a large portion of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) shipments.
He further stated that around 85 percent of India’s LPG imports and about 55 percent of LNG imports move through this route, and any disruption could severely affect the country’s fuel supply and energy security.
However, sources in Parliament indicated that a discussion on the matter may not take place because parliamentary rules generally do not allow a debate if a minister has already made a suo motu statement on the issue.
On Monday, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar briefed the Rajya Sabha about the situation, stating that Narendra Modi is personally monitoring the developments and that relevant ministries are coordinating to respond effectively.
Meanwhile, global crude oil prices have risen close to USD 100 per barrel following the disruptions. Government sources said that petrol and diesel prices in India are unlikely to increase unless crude prices cross USD 130 per barrel.
Officials also said the country currently has adequate fuel reserves, and there is no shortage of petrol or diesel at fuel stations across India. According to projections, crude oil prices are expected to remain around USD 100 per barrel.
Amid the rising tensions in West Asia, government sources earlier indicated that Australia and Canada have offered to supply natural gas to India, as the country explores alternative energy sources to safeguard its fuel needs.
