New Delhi, March 12 (NationPress) Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, voiced serious concerns regarding India’s energy security on Thursday. He cautioned that without proper measures, the nation might encounter significant challenges in the near future. Gandhi attributed the prevailing issues to deficient foreign policy decisions and urged the government to take urgent steps to protect the interests of the populace.

While addressing reporters outside Parliament, Gandhi mentioned that he had requested permission to discuss the gas and LPG situation within the House but was denied the opportunity to speak.

“Typically, there is a procedure in place to request a discussion... I had sought to make a statement regarding the current gas and LPG situation. I intended to discuss it, but a new process appears to be in place where the minister decides first, then I speak, followed by the minister's response,” Gandhi explained.

He underscored the rising uncertainty in the energy sector, warning that fuel supplies might become a critical issue.

“Fundamentally, the primary concern is that gas will pose a challenge. Petrol will become problematic. All fuel sources may face difficulties. Our energy security has been compromised due to flawed foreign policy. Now, it’s imperative that we prepare for these challenges. The government and PM Modi must begin preparations; otherwise, it will adversely affect millions,” he stated.

Gandhi emphasized that the matter extends beyond whether specific nations permit or restrict fuel supplies.

“This conflict is fundamentally about the current global order,” he remarked.

He further noted that evolving global geopolitical dynamics are creating uncertainties that could disrupt energy supply chains.

“It’s a broader issue regarding whether Iran will allow fuel exports... We are heading towards an unstable phase. In such times, a shift in mindset is crucial. I urge the government to consider the potential scenarios and ensure that our citizens do not suffer,” Gandhi added.

The Congress leader clarified that his statements were not politically motivated but rather a warning about impending challenges.

“I am not making a political statement. I foresee a significant problem ahead. Even if the situation with Iran is resolved, this issue won’t disappear because the world is evolving and its structure is changing. We need to adapt our mindset. If we fail to do so, and if we do not work with clarity to position India as a focal point, it will lead to complications,” he continued.

In the meantime, protests against the recent increase in LPG prices have erupted across various regions of the country. In Mandya district of Karnataka, members of the District Congress Committee, along with its women’s wing, staged protests against the Union government, condemning the rise in both domestic and commercial LPG cylinder prices.

On March 7, oil marketing companies hiked the price of a 14.2-kg domestic LPG cylinder by Rs 60, while a 19-kg commercial cylinder saw a rise of Rs 114.50 to Rs 115. This increase has been largely ascribed to surging global energy prices amid escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia.

The Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) has also announced a statewide protest across all districts on Thursday, urging the Centre to immediately reverse the recent LPG price increase. The party accused the government of failing to adequately manage fuel and gas supplies during a time of global market uncertainty due to the West Asia crisis.

Meanwhile, government officials have warned against panic buying and hoarding of LPG cylinders. Authorities noted that misinformation spreading on social media has led to unnecessary panic bookings.

Officials urged citizens to remain composed and refrain from disseminating unverified claims about LPG shortages.