New Delhi: CPI-M Lok Sabha MP John Brittas has criticised the Union government’s foreign policy and handling of the ongoing commercial LPG cylinder shortage, accusing it of acting like a “cheerleader” for the United States and Israel while failing to address a crisis affecting businesses across the country.
Opposition Warned Govt About Crisis
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Brittas said opposition parties had already cautioned the Centre about the possible disruption in LPG supply linked to geopolitical tensions. According to him, the government ignored the warnings and failed to take preventive steps.
He alleged that the administration remained silent even as the situation escalated, adding that the conflict in West Asia would eventually impose an additional economic burden on Indian consumers. Brittas also criticised the government for not taking a clear stand on the actions of the US and Israel amid rising tensions with Iran.
Hospitality Sector Hit by Cylinder Supply Disruptions
The shortage of commercial LPG cylinders has started affecting hotels and restaurants in several cities, forcing some establishments to suspend operations temporarily. Industry bodies say the halt in supply has disrupted cooking operations and could affect essential services that rely on large-scale fuel usage.
In Bengaluru, the city’s Hotels Association issued a notice stating that commercial cylinder supply had been stopped and called for urgent intervention by the Union government to restore distribution. Similar disruptions have been reported in Bhopal and other urban centres.
Govt Forms Committee, Prioritises Domestic Supply
In response to the crisis, the Centre has constituted a three-member committee made up of executive directors from public sector oil marketing companies to review supply concerns and address industry grievances. Authorities have also prioritised LPG distribution for households, hospitals and educational institutions.
Officials from the LPG trade confirmed that commercial cylinder distribution has been restricted, with exceptions made only for critical services such as healthcare facilities and student hostels.
New Booking Rule Introduced to Prevent Hoarding
To ensure fair distribution, the government has also introduced a 25-day gap between domestic LPG refill bookings. The measure aims to prevent hoarding and maintain adequate supply for households during the current disruption.
Meanwhile, hospitality associations warn that the shortage may continue for several weeks. Representatives from the Coimbatore District Hoteliers’ Association said restaurants have already faced fuel shortages for nearly two weeks and expect the situation to persist for at least a month due to delays in shipments and processing of LPG supplies.