Karnataka BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra criticized Congress leaders for protesting against recent LPG and petrol price hikes. He argued that the current situation is not comparable to when the Congress was in power. Vijayendra highlighted that LPG prices were significantly higher during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government’s tenure.
Vijayendra pointed out that during the UPA era, leaders like former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh justified economic decisions by saying “money does not grow on trees.” He emphasized that LPG prices were higher back then despite stable global conditions. In contrast, he noted the current global volatility in the Middle East and disruptions in global energy supply chains.
Despite global challenges, Vijayendra praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, crediting him and his Cabinet for ensuring access to oil and natural gas supplies through diplomatic efforts. He also criticized the economic management of the previous government, citing multiple scams and India’s inclusion among the “Fragile Five” economies during that time.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar announced that the issue of gas and petroleum supply disruptions will be discussed in detail at the state Cabinet meeting. A heated debate had occurred in the Karnataka Assembly over the shortage of commercial LPG cylinders, with Congress and BJP exchanging accusations while the government urged the public to conserve LPG during the global crisis.
Food and Civil Supplies Minister K.H. Muniyappa assured that domestic consumers in Karnataka would receive at least one LPG cylinder for use over 25 days. He stated that the state government had already engaged with oil companies to ensure uninterrupted domestic supply, emphasizing that the shortage would not affect consumers.
