Mumbai Hotel Owner and Manager Charged for Illegal LPG Cylinder Use
Synopsis
An FIR has been filed against a Mumbai hotel owner and manager for illegally using domestic LPG cylinders in commercial operations. The incident raises serious concerns about the misuse of subsidized gas meant for households.
Key Takeaways
Two individuals charged for illegal LPG cylinder use.
Raising concerns about the misuse of subsidized gas.
Police confirmed ongoing investigations.
Similar incidents reported in Delhi.
Public safety at risk due to unauthorized LPG storage.
Mumbai, March 30 (NationPress) A police report has been lodged against two individuals for the unauthorized storage and use of domestic LPG cylinders in a hotel located in the Kalbadevi area of Mumbai for commercial activities.
The LT Marg Police have charged both suspects – Harish Mehta and Prakash Purohit – under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Essential Commodities Act. The investigation is currently ongoing.
Following a tip-off, a rationing officer executed a raid at the Laxmi Vilas Hindu Hotel in Kalbadevi. During this operation, it was discovered that domestic LPG cylinders were being improperly stored and used in the hotel's kitchen for commercial purposes without any valid license or authorization.
According to police officials, an empty domestic gas cylinder was confiscated from the premises, while another filled cylinder had previously been seized and is now held at the police station.
The hotel manager, identified as Prakash Hansaram Purohit (28), was unable to present valid documentation or permits for the utilization of the cylinders. The hotel owner, Harish Mehta, has also been implicated in the case due to his alleged involvement.
Authorities have highlighted that such violations are becoming more frequent, raising alarms about the misuse of subsidized LPG cylinders intended for household use.
On March 28, amidst concerns regarding a shortage of cooking gas cylinders in Mumbai, a significant theft was reported in the Charkop area of Kandivali West. Unknown assailants reportedly stole 27 LPG cylinders from a delivery vehicle after forcibly entering it.
This incident transpired during the night between March 25 and 26. The thieves targeted a tempo used for gas distribution, making off with 27 cylinders, comprising five filled and 22 empty ones.
Mumbai Police confirmed that a case has been filed at Charkop Police Station against unidentified individuals, with ongoing efforts to locate and apprehend the perpetrators.
The complainant, Nandkumar Ramraj Soni (35), a resident of Jai Janata Nagar in Malad West, had been working as a delivery agent with Shriji Gas Service in Charkop for seven years. He delivers LPG cylinders directly to customers using a tempo, which is his family's main source of income.
Similar incidents have also emerged in Delhi. On March 26, a significant enforcement operation led by the Delhi Police Crime Branch uncovered an illegal scheme involving the hoarding and misuse of LPG cylinders in the Ranhola area of Outer Delhi.
A total of 459 empty gas cylinders, including 175 Bharat Petroleum and 284 Indane cylinders, were confiscated during the raid. Officials stated that this operation, conducted by the Western Range-I unit of the Crime Branch, was based on credible intelligence inputs, revealing large-scale unauthorized storage and alleged black marketing of LPG cylinders.
Point of View
It’s critical to recognize the implications of this incident within Mumbai. The illegal use of domestic LPG cylinders not only violates laws but poses serious safety risks. It is essential to uphold regulations that protect consumers and ensure the responsible use of essential commodities.
NationPress
10 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for the FIR against the hotel?
The FIR was filed due to the illegal storage and use of domestic LPG cylinders for commercial purposes.
Who are the individuals charged in this case?
The individuals charged are hotel owner Harish Mehta and manager Prakash Purohit.
What laws are they being charged under?
They are being charged under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Essential Commodities Act.
What other incidents related to LPG cylinder misuse have been reported?
A recent theft of 27 LPG cylinders from a delivery vehicle in Kandivali West has also raised concerns.
What is the significance of these incidents?
These incidents highlight the growing misuse of subsidized LPG cylinders intended for household use, raising safety and regulatory concerns.
