Rahul Gandhi Claims Government Bartered India’s Oil Rights to the US
Opposition leader raises concerns in Lok Sabha over energy security amid US-Israel-Iran tensions
India, March 13: Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Thursday alleged in the Lok Sabha that the government has “bartered” India’s right to independently manage its oil imports with the United States, calling it a “compromise” that threatens the country’s energy security.
Speaking during a debate on energy issues, Gandhi highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, from where 20 percent of global oil flows, noting that its closure due to the US-Israel-Iran conflict could have significant repercussions for India, which relies heavily on oil and natural gas imports from the region.
“The pain has just started restaurants are closing, LPG shortages are affecting households, and street vendors are facing disruptions. This is only the beginning,” he said. Gandhi stressed that energy security is the foundation of every nation and criticized the government for allegedly allowing the US to influence India’s oil sourcing decisions, including purchases from Russia.
He referred to the US granting a 30-day waiver permitting India to buy Russian oil, questioning why a nation of India’s size would allow external permission to determine its energy partnerships. Gandhi termed this a “puzzle” that he believes stems from government compromise.
During his speech, Gandhi also attempted to link India’s energy security concerns with disclosures by the US Department of Justice, prompting protests from the treasury benches. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla instructed Gandhi to remain focused on his notice regarding energy security, after which Petroleum Minister Hardeep Puri was asked to respond.
The opposition leader’s remarks have intensified debate over India’s autonomy in energy policy amid global geopolitical tensions affecting oil supplies.
