New Delhi, March 16 (NationPress) The Rajya Sabha erupted in chaos on Monday as discussions escalated over the shortage of LPG supplies. Leader of the Opposition, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Leader of the House, J.P. Nadda, engaged in a heated exchange regarding the government's strategy in light of the ongoing crisis in West Asia.

The confrontation began during the Zero Hour, where Kharge accused the administration of mishandling the energy crisis triggered by the escalating conflict in the Gulf and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

Kharge pointed fingers at the government for the severe scarcity of LPG cylinders nationwide, emphasizing that middle-class and low-income families were suffering the most.

He noted that many restaurants, hostels, and community kitchens have been compelled to shut down, and it is alarming that LPG cylinders are being sold at inflated prices.

According to his statements, 60% of the nation's LPG is imported, with 90% of that coming through the Strait of Hormuz—a vital maritime route currently blocked, resulting in a global oil shortage.

Kharge also pointed out the supply shortages of fertilizers, stating that fertilizer production facilities are in dire straits. He asserted that had the government engaged in proper planning regarding LPG supplies, such a crisis could have been avoided.

“The waiting time for LPG cylinders has now stretched from 21 to 25 days, prompting hoarding and black-market activities. This situation highlights the government's poor planning and raises serious questions about its foreign policy,” he stated, casting doubt on the government's foresight.

The Congress President also accused Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri of providing misleading information regarding LPG availability and claimed that the on-the-ground reality starkly contrasts with the minister's claims.

Kharge's persistent criticism of the government's handling of the LPG situation led to interjections from Kiren Rijiju, the Parliamentary Affairs Minister, and Nadda.

Nadda interrupted Kharge’s critique by asserting that the Zero Hour should be reserved for discussions on public issues and called for the chair's intervention.

Rijiju chimed in, accusing the opposition of disrupting discussions on serious topics. He criticized Rahul Gandhi, noting that when given the chance to speak on the LPG crisis, he chose to address unrelated matters.

“During the Petroleum Minister's statement on the nation’s oil and energy reserves, the opposition chose to create a ruckus instead of listening,” Rijiju remarked.

Despite the interruptions, the opposition maintained their pressure on the government regarding the LPG crisis. Chairman CP Radhakrishnan urged Kharge to conclude his assertions amid ongoing disruptions from opposition members.

Nadda, responding to Kharge's allegations, rebuffed the opposition's stance, stating, “It is unfortunate that the Congress party resorts to political maneuvers even in challenging times.”

He reminded the opposition that the crisis resulted from global factors rather than domestic shortcomings.

“A Congress leader has been caught hoarding. Instead of supporting the government during critical times, they are attempting to exploit the situation for political gain,” he stated.