New Delhi, March 12 (NationPress) A number of Opposition MPs voiced their worries on Thursday regarding the reported shortages of LPG cylinders and escalating fuel prices, calling for a parliamentary debate and accusing the government of mismanaging the supply chain. Conversely, leaders from the ruling coalition claimed there was no reason to panic and reassured the public that sufficient reserves are maintained within the country.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor informed IANS that the matter should be addressed in Parliament, urging the government to clarify the current situation to the public.

He noted that long lines are visible for LPG cylinders in various locations, causing significant hardships for many households when their cylinders run empty.

“Some dining establishments have reported they are unable to cook due to a lack of gas. In numerous homes, the challenges of replacing empty cylinders are considerable, and the government has raised prices,” Tharoor stated. He emphasized that Parliament serves as a platform to discuss such pressing issues, and the government must provide answers to the Opposition while reassuring citizens that solutions are in progress.

CPI(M) MP John Brittas criticized the government, saying that despite their claims of a 75-day fuel supply, shortages are evident in various regions.

“Many restaurants and eateries have had to cease operations, while a black market has emerged. Daily life has been disrupted across various sectors—from shipping to mining—with the supply chain in turmoil,” he remarked, prompting the Petroleum Minister to investigate the situation nationally.

Congress MP Praniti Shinde conveyed that states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Kerala are reporting similar issues. She asserted that the government should have foreseen and adequately prepared for the current situation.

Another Congress MP, Ranjeet Ranjan, indicated that the rise in commercial gas cylinder prices has heavily impacted local eateries and roadside food vendors.

“Many dhabas that provided meals to daily wage workers at prices ranging from Rs 50 to Rs 150 have shut down. In multiple areas of Delhi, restaurants and dhabas are either closed or offering a very limited menu,” she explained.

Shiromani Akali Dal MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal also condemned the situation, asserting that there is widespread disorder.

“To share a personal experience, I purchased a cylinder yesterday for Rs 1,200, while I was charged Rs 2,000,” she expressed to IANS.

Samajwadi Party MP Anand Bhadauriya accused the government of thrusting citizens into recurring crises, asserting that the rising prices of petrol, diesel, and cooking gas are a burden for the public.

He mentioned that individuals are facing long waits for cylinders in areas like Gorakhpur and demanded explanations from the government regarding the price hikes.

In response to the Opposition’s assertions, BJP MP Sanjay Jaiswal declared that there is no cause for concern, stating that the country possesses adequate fuel reserves.

“We have more than two months’ worth of petrol and diesel reserves, eliminating any reason for alarm. There will be a continuous supply of gas to households without interruption,” he assured.

Janata Dal (United) leader Sanjay Kumar Jha defended the government, stating that the Centre is monitoring the situation closely.

He noted that the government successfully managed significant crises previously, including the Covid pandemic, and is working to ensure that the current conditions remain stable.