New Delhi, March 27 (NationPress) Union Minister Kiren Rijiju affirmed on Friday that there will be no lockdown in the nation, urging state governments to curb hoarding and guarantee uninterrupted fuel availability. He commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the government's decision to reduce excise duties on petrol and diesel, describing it as a momentous move to safeguard the welfare of ordinary citizens amidst global instability.

In statements to the media, Rijiju expressed gratitude towards the Prime Minister, stating, “I extend my thanks on behalf of the entire populace. In these challenging times, particularly with ongoing conflicts impacting our oil supplies, taking such a bold step is unprecedented.”

He underscored the government’s commitment to price stability: “The Prime Minister has demonstrated today that no Indian should encounter difficulties in their daily lives. It's well understood that our domestic production of gas and oil is minimal, necessitating our reliance on imports. Basic necessities like gas, petrol, and diesel are essential for everyone. Thus, enacting such a significant decision to keep prices stable, with petrol excise duty reduced to merely Rs 3 and diesel exempt from duty — is commendable. We have heard from numerous citizens expressing their gratitude to the Prime Minister.”

Rijiju also highlighted the parliamentary backing for this initiative: “The Prime Minister has made a monumental decision. With Parliament reconvening today, our MPs will certainly support this change. As representatives of the people, they will want to express their appreciation to the Prime Minister for his leadership in this significant matter.”

Addressing concerns about a potential lockdown, he stated: “Who is spreading these rumors? The Prime Minister has clearly indicated that panic should be avoided. He has urged state governments to ensure that hoarding does not occur and that no one panics. The Indian government is fully managing the situation.”

He called on state governments to facilitate smooth fuel distribution and prevent hoarding.

“With the Indian government making such a substantial decision, it is the obligation of state governments to ensure no shortages of gas, petrol, or diesel. Collaboration is essential,” he emphasized.

Regarding internal disputes within the Congress leadership, Rijiju remarked: “It’s not my place to comment on the Congress Party's decisions, but we hope their leaders will perform effectively. I have no opinion on who they choose as their leader; I simply wish for their leader to embody positivity and respect for parliamentary democracy, rules, and established conventions.”

He concluded by advocating for unity in execution: “I would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the Prime Minister, on behalf of all MPs, for his pivotal decision to cut excise duties on petrol and diesel. This initiative is aimed solely at ensuring that the common citizen does not suffer. Hence, it is crucial that this significant decision by the Prime Minister is effectively implemented at all levels, particularly by state governments, to prevent any shortages of LPG, petrol, and diesel. We must all come together.”

“This is a crisis period. Teamwork is essential,” he added.

The minister’s remarks highlight the government's efforts to ensure fuel affordability, maintain public trust, and avert panic buying during global fuel supply challenges.