Congress Under Fire for Using 2011 Photo in LPG Shortage Critique
Synopsis
A recent social media post by the Congress party criticizing the government over LPG shortages and price hikes has sparked controversy due to the use of a 2011 photograph. As protests continue, the party faces backlash and subsequently removes the post.
Key Takeaways
Congress party faced backlash for using a 2011 photo in a recent social media post.
Protests against rising LPG prices are ongoing in various regions.
The government increased domestic LPG production by 25%.
Officials warn against panic buying and misinformation regarding LPG supply.
India relies on imports for 60% of its LPG needs.
New Delhi, March 12 (NationPress) In the midst of ongoing disputes regarding LPG shortages and escalating fuel prices, the Congress party ignited a debate on social media by posting on platform X that criticized the government. However, the post was subsequently removed due to significant backlash for utilizing an outdated photograph.
The controversial post displayed an image featuring the slogan “Modi Hai To Mumkin Hai,” accompanied by a caption that read “Modi ki line lagao yojana,” insinuating that citizens were compelled to wait in long lines for LPG cylinders. Following its publication, numerous users highlighted that the image was sourced from 2011, prompting criticism towards the Congress for using an irrelevant image to illustrate a current issue.
In response to the uproar, the party discreetly deleted the post from its social media platform.
Meanwhile, protests against the recent surge in LPG prices persist across various regions of the country. In the Mandya district of Karnataka, members of the District Congress Committee, along with its women's wing, organized a demonstration against the Union government, denouncing the hike in domestic and commercial LPG cylinder costs.
On March 7, oil marketing firms increased the price of a 14.2-kg domestic LPG cylinder by Rs 60, while the price for a 19-kg commercial cylinder saw an increase of Rs 114.50. This rise has been largely linked to escalating global energy costs amid growing geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
The Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) has also declared plans for a statewide protest across all districts on Thursday, demanding an immediate rollback of the recent LPG price hike. The party accused the government of inadequate planning concerning fuel and gas supplies, particularly during a time of global market instability due to the West Asia crisis.
As protests continue, the Congress is also gearing up for internal organizational initiatives. The party has scheduled a two-day residential training workshop in Trimbakeshwar starting Thursday for candidates from North Maharashtra who recently participated in local body elections.
In the meantime, government officials have warned against panic buying and hoarding of LPG cylinders. Authorities have indicated that misinformation circulating on social media has resulted in unnecessary panic bookings.
Officials have urged citizens to maintain composure and refrain from disseminating unverified claims regarding LPG shortages.
During a joint briefing by the Ministry of Shipping, Ministry of External Affairs, and Ministry of Petroleum, officials announced that India’s domestic LPG production has been boosted by nearly 25% following government directives aimed at enhancing output.
Sujata Sharma, speaking at the briefing, noted that additional LPG cargo shipments are currently en route to India and are anticipated to arrive within one or two days.
She also emphasized that India imports roughly 60% of its LPG needs, with approximately 90% of these imports transiting through the Strait of Hormuz.
“At present, LPG is primarily being allocated to the domestic sector, while non-domestic LPG is prioritized for essential services such as hospitals and educational institutions,” Sharma stated.
She added that a committee is collaborating with state authorities and industry representatives to guarantee that the available LPG supply is distributed fairly and transparently nationwide.
Point of View
The incident illustrates the challenges political parties face in addressing contemporary issues. The backlash against Congress for using an outdated photo underscores the importance of accuracy and relevance in political communication, especially during times of public discontent over essential commodities like LPG.
NationPress
1 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the controversy surrounding the Congress party's post?
The controversy arose when the Congress party shared a post criticizing the government for LPG shortages, using an outdated photo from 2011, which led to significant backlash on social media.
What actions are being taken against the recent LPG price hikes?
Protests have erupted in various regions, including Karnataka, where Congress members are demanding a rollback of the increased LPG prices.
How has the government responded to concerns over LPG supply?
Government officials have increased domestic LPG production by nearly 25% and are working to ensure fair distribution of LPG supplies across the country.
What should citizens do in response to LPG shortage misinformation?
Officials advise citizens to remain calm and refrain from panic buying, as misinformation about LPG shortages is circulating on social media.
How much of India's LPG is imported?
India imports approximately 60% of its LPG requirements, with a significant portion transiting through the Strait of Hormuz.
