The Congress party has expressed worry about the current global energy scenario, urging the government to handle the issue more openly. Party leaders emphasized the need for serious discussions at the national level regarding developments in the international energy market and the domestic challenges related to LPG cylinders and fuel supply. Congress MP Manish Tewari highlighted the impact of geopolitical tensions on global energy supplies, particularly citing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
The blockage of the Strait of Hormuz has led to a tense global energy situation, with only one ship passing through recently, affecting about 40% of energy supplies from West Asia to the East. Tewari noted the repercussions on India and mentioned the government’s invocation of the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) in response to the crisis. He also pointed out that airlines are imposing surcharges due to rising operational costs.
Fellow Congress MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa stressed the need for thorough deliberations in Parliament on the issues surrounding LPG cylinders and fuel supply in the country. He called for a comprehensive discussion rather than a mere statement in Parliament, emphasizing the importance of considering the welfare of the entire nation. Congress leaders raised concerns about the government’s handling of the situation, alleging misleading information and worsening conditions.
Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi questioned the government’s previous assurances on fuel availability, highlighting the disconnect between promises and the current situation. Jothimani, another Congress MP, described the situation as alarming, noting the adverse impact on businesses in various parts of the country. She emphasized the urgent need for government intervention to address the shortages affecting both domestic and commercial gas cylinders.
Meanwhile, BJP MP Darshan Singh Choudhary acknowledged the challenging international energy situation but assured that the government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, is working to maintain uninterrupted fuel supplies. Union Minister Piyush Goyal reiterated that India is not facing fuel shortages despite global market volatility caused by conflicts in West Asia. He assured that the government is closely monitoring developments and taking necessary steps to ensure the continuous availability of fuel nationwide.
