Raut accused the Centre of failing to adequately address the issue and demanded a broader discussion on how the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel could affect India’s energy security
Sanjay Raut. File Pic
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Thursday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for holding election rallies in southern states while, he alleged, the country faces concerns over shortages of commercial LPG cylinders and disruptions in the energy supply chain due to the ongoing West Asia conflict, reported news agency ANI.
Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Raut accused the Centre of failing to adequately address the issue and demanded a broader discussion on how the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel could affect India’s energy security, reported ANI.
Raut questions PM’s focus amid LPG shortage concerns
Speaking to reporters, Raut questioned the Prime Minister’s priorities, claiming that the government should focus on addressing supply disruptions and rising concerns among businesses and consumers.
“Where is our Prime Minister? He is carrying out election campaigns in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. And the words he is using against his opponents do not suit the stature of the Prime Ministerial position,” Raut said, reported ANI.
He further alleged that the Centre had not sufficiently addressed the impact of the West Asia conflict on the supply of LPG, petrol and diesel.
“You are not discussing the impact of the Iran-Israel conflict. You are not talking about the LPG shortage, petrol and diesel shortage. This situation is creating fear among people. Hotels and restaurants are shutting down. The Modi government has not said anything on this,” the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader said, reported ANI.
Raut also described the situation as unfortunate, stating that the country needed strong leadership during a period of global instability.
PM addresses West Asia conflict during Tamil Nadu rally
The remarks from Raut came shortly after the Prime Minister addressed public meetings in southern India ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
During a rally in Tiruchirappalli, PM Modi spoke about the ongoing conflict in West Asia and its potential impact on global energy supply chains. He emphasised that his government prioritises the interests of Indian citizens in responding to international developments.
“Today, I would like to speak to the people of Tamil Nadu about the conflict in West Asia. It has affected the whole world’s energy supply chain. We believe in the ideology of India First,” the Prime Minister said, reported ANI.
He also urged people not to panic or believe rumours about shortages of fuel and cooking gas.
Government steps in to prioritise domestic LPG supply
Reports of shortages of commercial LPG cylinders have surfaced in some regions following the escalation of conflict in West Asia, which has affected global shipping routes and fuel logistics.
In response, the central government has invoked the Essential Commodities Act to prioritise the supply of LPG for domestic consumption.
According to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, domestic LPG production has been increased by about 25 per cent, and the entire domestic output is now being directed towards household consumers to ensure uninterrupted supply.
Control room monitoring energy supply situation
The Ministry of Home Affairs has also strengthened its control room, which is currently operating round the clock to monitor the evolving energy supply situation.
Officials said the government is keeping a close watch on the impact of geopolitical developments on India’s fuel supply and is coordinating with relevant agencies to ensure that essential commodities remain available across the country.
Authorities have also appealed to citizens not to spread or believe unverified information related to shortages, stressing that measures are in place to maintain stable fuel supplies despite the ongoing global disruptions.
(With inputs from ANI)
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