NEW DELHI — Congress MP Vijay Vasanth moved an adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha today, March 24, 2026, demanding an urgent discussion on a nationwide LPG cylinder shortage. The MP raised alarms over reports of underweight cylinders being sold at inflated prices, causing severe hardship for households and small businesses.
Key Concerns Raised:
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Service Disruptions: The shortage has reportedly forced the closure of several hotels and canteens and disrupted essential services across multiple states.
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Supply Malpractice: Vasanth highlighted allegations of consumers receiving cylinders below the regulated weight while being charged premium rates.
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Impact on Vulnerable Groups: The MP urged the government to regulate prices and ensure a steady supply, particularly for low-income families and Ujjwala beneficiaries.
The Global Context:
The current domestic crisis is linked to the escalating West Asia conflict, which has severely disrupted trade through the Strait of Hormuz.
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Import Dependency: India normally imports approximately 60% of its LPG, with nearly 90% of those imports passing through the now-blocked Strait.
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Government Response: Prime Minister Modi addressed the House yesterday, describing the situation as “worrisome.” The government has since directed refineries to maximize domestic production and is tapping into strategic reserves to mitigate the shortfall.
Meanwhile, the opposition has criticized the government’s handling of the energy shock, calling for immediate relief measures as the conflict enters its fourth week.
