The Aryavarth express:
New Delhi: Sanjay Raut, MP from Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), on Friday accused the central government of misleading the public about the availability of LPG cylinders, claiming that people in several states are facing shortages despite official assurances.
Speaking to reporters, Raut said the government’s claim that there is no shortage of cooking gas in the country does not match the situation on the ground.
“The government is lying. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri say there is no shortage of LPG in the nation, but they should see the reality in Bihar, West Bengal, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, where people are standing in queues to buy LPG,” he said.
Raut further alleged that households and small businesses, including hotel owners, are facing difficulties in obtaining cooking gas cylinders.
Maharashtra government steps in
Amid concerns over supply and booking issues, the Government of Maharashtra has directed oil marketing companies to immediately resolve technical glitches in LPG booking applications and missed-call services so that consumers can book cylinders without inconvenience.
The state government also announced the establishment of control rooms at the state, departmental, district and taluka levels to monitor the situation and address consumer complaints.
Additionally, a WhatsApp-based grievance redressal system will be introduced to allow consumers to report issues related to LPG supply and booking.
Authorities said that with the festive season approaching, priority will be given to ensuring uninterrupted LPG supply to public institutions and essential services.
Local representatives and gram panchayat members have also been asked to help prevent panic among citizens regarding gas availability. Police protection has been arranged for vehicles transporting LPG cylinders and gas agencies to ensure smooth distribution.
Opposition raises issue in Rajya Sabha
Separately, Sanjay Singh, MP from the Aam Aadmi Party, submitted a notice under Rule 267 in the Rajya Sabha seeking suspension of the day’s business to discuss the alleged LPG shortage and rising commercial gas prices.
He cited disruptions linked to tensions in West Asia and the strategic Strait of Hormuz as possible factors affecting LPG supply.
