Bengaluru, March 10 (NationPress) D.K. Shivakumar, the Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka and President of the State Congress, emphasized on Tuesday that pressing matters such as the shortage of LPG cylinders and escalating fuel prices need to be openly discussed in Parliament. He criticized the Union government for evading crucial discussions that impact both the public and the commercial sector.

"The entire hotel and commercial sector is facing significant challenges," he remarked.

While addressing journalists in Bengaluru, Dy CM Shivakumar noted that members of the INDIA Bloc have already voiced these concerns and that numerous MPs have protested, calling for a dialogue.

“Foreign policy is not merely about the present. Diesel supplies are dwindling. We have the right to express our concerns. The hotel and commercial industries are suffering immensely. The government has the responsibility to ensure the availability of petrol, diesel, and gas, which are essential for households. This has developed into a major issue,” he added, stressing the importance of these topics being debated in Parliament.

“The shortage of LPG cylinders should be addressed in Parliament. Our party members have raised this concern, and the Central government has permitted discussion on it. All MPs from the INDIA Bloc have protested. What is causing this hesitation to discuss?” he inquired.

He further remarked that the escalating fuel supply issues are growing more serious and are impacting various sectors.

Dy CM Shivakumar also pointed out that the ramifications extend beyond India, particularly affecting those employed overseas.

“All Indian businessmen and workers in the Middle East, especially in Saudi Arabia, are feeling the effects. Their families are troubled. This represents a significant failure on the part of the Central government. We will raise our voices collectively,” he said.

Addressing the recent hike in cooking gas prices, he noted that the cost of LPG cylinders increased by Rs 60 coinciding with International Women’s Day and questioned why state MPs were not vocal about this issue.

“Not a single MP from our state is addressing this. They should speak up. They find their voices for many other issues,” he insisted.

In response to former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda's comments on the Mekedatu and Yettinahole projects, Shivakumar stated that Gowda is welcome to discuss these topics in Parliament and offer suggestions.

“He has mentioned the Mekedatu and Yettinahole projects. Let him present his views in Parliament. I will transparently share what we have accomplished during my term. It would be inappropriate for me to criticize him at his age. I do not intend to attack him. Let him propose solutions. I am not here to hurt his sentiments,” he emphasized.

Dy CM Shivakumar indicated that he would clarify several political issues after completing six years as the Karnataka Congress President.

“Upon completing six years as the State Congress President, I will provide comprehensive insights. Not today. I plan to hold a press conference tomorrow. Today, I have only invited legislators. I have also welcomed AICC secretaries visiting Bengaluru and our parliamentary candidates. I will address the media later,” he concluded.