27 March,2026 11:21 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Congress MP Manickam Tagore. File pic
Congress leader Manickam Tagore on Friday raised concerns in the Lok Sabha over the commercial LPG crisis, calling for an urgent discussion in the House. He moved an adjournment motion, saying the price hike was affecting both the public and the economy.
In a letter to the House, Tagore said, "The recent hike in commercial LPG cylinder rates by 30-40 per cent has sent shockwaves across the nation, causing panic among the people. The shortage of supply and subsequent price hike of restaurant items have further exacerbated the situation, putting the common man at the receiving end," as reported by ANI.
Effective March 7, the government has reportedly raised the price of domestic and commercial LPG cylinders as below -
- 14.2 kg domestic cylinder - increased by Rs 60
- 19 kg commercial cylinder - increased by Rs 115
Tagore warned that the increase could have ripple effects on the economy, saying, "The exorbitant increase in commercial LPG rates will lead to skyrocketing food prices, closure of small and medium-sized enterprises, and loss of livelihood for thousands of people," as reported by ANI.
The rise in prices has also affected small restaurants and businesses that depend on commercial LPG, adding to the financial strain on the public. Opposition leaders have criticised the government for not taking proactive steps to mitigate the burden.
The price hike comes amid reports of supply shortages, which have already caused concern among small restaurants and households. Opposition leaders have criticised the government for not taking measures to prevent the burden on ordinary people. Tagore's move in Parliament highlights growing political pressure to address the issue.
Tagore warned that the price hike could have far-reaching effects. Small and medium-sized enterprises may struggle, some could even close down, and livelihoods of thousands of workers may be impacted. He asked the House to adjourn and discuss ways to "roll back the hike in commercial LPG rates" and prevent further hardship to the public.
While opposition leaders criticise the increase, officials noted that despite an increase of Rs 60, LPG prices in India are still lower than in many neighbouring countries. For instance, a 14.2-kg domestic cylinder costs around Rs 913 in Delhi, compared with Rs 1,046 in Pakistan, Rs 1,241 in Sri Lanka and Rs 1,207 in Nepal.
Domestic LPG prices had remained steady since April 2025, when the non-subsidised rate for a 14.2-kg cylinder in Delhi was Rs 853.
(With ANI Inputs)
