Opposition Sparks Debate Over India's LPG Crisis and Foreign Policy

The Trinamool Congress, along with opposition MPs, protested at the Parliament over LPG shortages and foreign policy issues. Concerns about Indian nationals in the Middle East were highlighted. The government countered by citing increased LPG production and crude supply assurances. The debate continues as opposition demands parliamentary discussion.

The Trinamool Congress and other opposition MPs took to the Parliament grounds to protest against the LPG cylinder shortage affecting the country. Shouting 'LPG, LPG,' they sought to draw attention to the nationwide scarcity, while voicing concerns for Indian citizens trapped in Middle Eastern nations by chanting, 'Qatar main Khade Hindustan, Modi Ghume Cheen Japan.'

Congress MP Jebi Mather criticized the government's stance, stating, 'Just saying there's no scarcity doesn't solve the issue.... Union Minister Mr. Puri is downplaying the situation. We must acknowledge the crisis before seeking solutions, as Rahul Gandhi intended to highlight in Parliament before being interrupted.' Meanwhile, Congress MP Jairam Ramesh accused the Modi administration of dodging discussions on the West Asian circumstances and their repercussions on India.

The opposition continues to demand a debate on West Asian affairs in Parliament. Under Rahul Gandhi's leadership, Congress members also protested within the Parliament premises over the LPG shortage. The government, however, assured that domestic LPG production has surged by around 25%, with a focus on household consumers.

In response to the LPG and crude concerns, Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, assured the Lok Sabha that India's energy supply remains robust despite logistical challenges. Non-Hormuz sources now account for 70% of crude imports, a rise from earlier figures, thanks to strategic diversification. India's petrol, diesel, kerosene, and other fuel supplies remain ample, with refineries operating at peak capacity.

To meet the growing LPG demand, production has risen by 28% over the past five days. New measures include a 25-day minimum booking gap and expanding the Delivery Authentication Code system to 90% of consumers, while alternative fuel solutions are being explored. The government has eased standard delivery times for domestic LPG and prompted state boards to permit the use of alternative fuels in hospitality to prioritize residential LPG supply.

(With inputs from agencies.)