The Press Information Bureau’s fact-checking unit refuted a viral message alleging a significant increase in petrol and diesel prices by up to Rs 12.50 per litre. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has not issued any such directive, as clarified by the PIB Fact Check team.
The PIB emphasized the falsity of the circulating order on social media regarding fuel price hikes and advised the public to rely on official sources for authentic information, cautioning against sharing unverified claims. This clarification follows the spread of a purported government notification on social platforms indicating a sharp surge in fuel rates.
Amid escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia impacting global energy markets, a senior government official confirmed that there are no current plans to raise retail fuel prices. Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, assured that petrol and diesel prices will remain stable for the time being, with continuous monitoring by the government of the evolving situation.
Addressing concerns about fuel availability, Sharma reassured the public that there is an ample supply of LPG, petroleum, and diesel without any price hikes. She urged consumers not to panic, highlighting the government’s efforts to ensure 100% supply for domestic LPG and PNG users, as well as for CNG in transportation.
The government’s proactive stance comes amidst the ongoing volatility in global oil markets due to uncertainties in West Asia, a critical oil-producing region.
