Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge raised concerns in the Rajya Sabha regarding a potential shortage of LPG in India amid the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, prompting a sharp exchange between the opposition and the government.
Speaking in the Upper House on Monday, Kharge sought a discussion on the issue, stating that international developments had increased concerns about gas and energy supply in the country. He said the government should provide clear information and hold a detailed discussion in Parliament on the matter.
As Kharge raised the issue, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju interrupted him, leading to a brief disruption in the House. The exchange triggered heated reactions between members of the opposition and the treasury benches.
Opposition Raises Concerns Over Gas Supply
During the proceedings, opposition parties expressed concern about a possible LPG shortage. They argued that escalating tensions in the Middle East and the conflict between Iran and the United States could affect global energy supply.
Kharge stated that under such circumstances the government should prepare in advance and inform Parliament about the situation. He demanded that the government present a detailed statement in the House and said the public should receive accurate information if there is any possibility that international developments could affect India.
Kiren Rijiju Responds During Debate
While Kharge was speaking, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju intervened, stating that the government had already provided information on the matter and that the situation should not be unnecessarily exaggerated.
The exchange led to brief commotion in the chamber as opposition members continued to demand a clear response from the government. The government reiterated that there was currently no shortage of gas or fuel in the country.
JP Nadda Responds to Opposition
Union Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party President J.P. Nadda responded to the opposition’s remarks during the debate. He said the Congress does not refrain from engaging in politics under any circumstances.
Nadda stated that the current uncertainty in the energy market was due to international developments rather than actions by India. He said the situation in the Middle East had created uncertainty in global energy markets.
He added that Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri had already provided detailed information to the House on the issue and that the government was closely monitoring the situation.
Allegations of Hoarding Raised
Nadda also alleged that some Congress leaders had been accused of hoarding LPG cylinders. According to him, such activities were attempts to create an atmosphere of crisis and provoke public concern.
He said responsible political conduct was required under such circumstances and that attempts to spread rumours should be avoided. The government said the opposition should not attempt to gain political advantage from a sensitive issue.
Government Says Gas Supply Is Normal
The government maintained that supplies of LPG, petrol and diesel in India remain fully normal. According to a report by news agency PTI, the government said there is no shortage in the availability of domestic LPG cylinders.
Official data cited by the government indicated that LPG refill bookings have declined in recent days. While refill bookings were around 8.88 million on March 13, the figure later declined to approximately 7.7 million.
The government said the drop reflects normal fluctuations in demand and has no connection with gas availability.
Impact of Iran–US Conflict on Energy Markets
Tensions between Iran and the United States in the Middle East have intensified in recent weeks, affecting global energy markets. Iran recently imposed certain restrictions around the Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime route considered one of the most important global corridors for oil and gas transportation.
Oil and gas tankers from several countries, including India, pass through this route. Any disruption in the passage could affect global energy supply.
Indian Ships Allowed Passage
Iran has recently allowed two Indian vessels to pass through the route and the ships are expected to arrive in India soon. The government said the development indicates that India’s energy supply remains secure at present.
The government also stated that India maintains sufficient strategic energy reserves.
Energy experts said India has worked in recent years to diversify its sources of energy supply, which reduces the risk of disruption if supply from a particular region is affected.
