15 March, Jammu: BJP spokesperson and Convenor for International Affairs Gaurav Gupta on Sunday accused the Congress party of creating unnecessary panic among citizens by circulating misleading claims about the availability of LPG in the country. He said such statements are generating confusion at a time when global energy markets are already under pressure due to geopolitical tensions.
Addressing the media in Jammu, Gupta said recent developments in West Asia have affected international energy supply chains, but the Government of India has taken prompt diplomatic and strategic measures to safeguard the country’s fuel requirements. According to him, the Centre is closely monitoring the situation and has already put mechanisms in place to maintain smooth distribution of LPG across the nation.
He said the Petroleum Ministry has confirmed that domestic LPG supply remains stable, adding that deliveries are being prioritised for households, hospitals and educational institutions. To strengthen reserves and ensure continuity, domestic LPG production has also been increased significantly in recent days.
Gupta alleged that despite repeated clarifications from the government, some Congress leaders are spreading misleading information, which has triggered panic bookings of LPG cylinders in several parts of the country. He claimed that the sudden surge in bookings is not due to a shortage but because of rumours being circulated about possible disruptions.
“On an average day, LPG bookings usually remain between 50 and 55 lakh. However, the number has recently climbed to nearly 75 lakh bookings daily. This sudden spike is the result of fear created by baseless statements,” Gupta said, adding that such behaviour places unnecessary pressure on the distribution network.
He further stated that authorities and energy agencies have already warned that misinformation regarding LPG shortages can lead to panic buying and hoarding, even when sufficient stocks are available. According to him, the current supply situation is under control and there is no reason for citizens to worry.
Taking a political swipe at the Congress, Gupta said the party has often attempted to turn sensitive national issues into political debates instead of supporting efforts aimed at safeguarding the country’s interests.
He also criticised the previous Congress-led governments, claiming that access to cooking gas was limited during their tenure and many rural families relied on firewood and other traditional fuels for daily cooking.
“In earlier years, LPG connections were out of reach for many poor households. Cooking gas was almost treated as a luxury,” he said.
Gupta contrasted this with the initiatives taken by the current government under the leadership of Narendra Modi. He highlighted that programmes such as the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana have enabled millions of economically weaker families to gain access to clean cooking fuel.
He added that the government has strengthened India’s energy security through diplomatic engagement with partner nations and improved coordination across agencies responsible for energy supply and maritime security.
“India today has the capability and preparedness to protect its energy interests even during global uncertainties,” he said.
Gupta urged political parties to avoid spreading rumours and instead support national efforts to maintain stability in essential services. He stressed that creating panic among citizens for political gains is irresponsible and harmful.
Appealing directly to the public, Gupta asked people not to indulge in panic buying or unnecessary stocking of LPG cylinders. He said hoarding by some households could lead to inconvenience for others and disrupt the normal supply chain.
“I request citizens to remain calm and book cylinders only when required. The government is fully committed to ensuring that LPG supply continues smoothly and that every household receives its share without disruption,” he added.
