Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar, and Congress leaders have jointly accused the Central government of causing a severe LPG and fuel crisis in Karnataka. They claim this crisis has adversely affected the livelihoods of numerous people, including auto drivers, small traders, and gig workers.
The Congress leaders, led by KPCC General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala, highlighted that over five lakh auto drivers in the state are facing distress due to a significant increase in auto gas prices and a shortage of supply. They mentioned that LPG prices, which were previously between Rs 58 and Rs 61 per litre in March 2026, have now skyrocketed to between Rs 105 and Rs 120 per litre within a short period, marking a 106% surge.
In Bengaluru, the statement pointed out a drastic reduction in the number of operational LPG and CNG stations from around 60-70 to just 10-15, with almost 80% of outlets shutting down. Additionally, the daily supply has halved from 12,000 litres to 6,000 litres, with restrictions limiting fuel distribution to Rs 400 per vehicle. This has led to auto drivers enduring long queues from early morning, often returning without fuel.
Describing the situation as economic oppression of the working class rather than just inflation, the Congress leaders criticized the Centre’s suggestion of reverting to petrol, deeming it impractical given the high petrol prices and the previous shift of many vehicles to gas.
The statement further highlighted a sharp increase in commercial LPG cylinder prices, which rose by Rs 200 on April 1, exceeding Rs 2,000. Currently priced at around Rs 2,161 per cylinder, the leaders alleged that black market rates have surged to Rs 6,000, severely impacting small hotels, roadside eateries, street vendors, and food delivery workers.
Blaming the Central government for the crisis, the leaders emphasized that LPG supply in India is controlled by oil marketing companies, making the Centre entirely responsible for the current situation. They accused the government of administrative failure and inaction despite visible shortages and public distress.
The Congress leaders also raised concerns about rampant black marketing of LPG and warned of potential fuel price hikes post the upcoming elections. They criticized the BJP and JD(S) Union Ministers from Karnataka for their silence, demanding that they either take responsibility or resign.
Terming the situation a livelihood emergency, the leaders stated that the crisis has pushed numerous families to the brink. They cautioned that public discontent over this issue would likely impact the upcoming by-elections in Davanagere South and Bagalkot, as well as future elections in other states.
