Daily briefings, action against black marketing: Govt moves to curb LPG panic

The Centre has decided to act against rumours and misinformation concerning the availability of LPG cylinders and other petroleum products amid the global energy crisis due to the Iran war.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has written to the Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories, urging them to conduct daily press briefings and share accurate and timely information through social and electronic media.

Currently, only 17 states and Union Territories are conducting press briefings on the cooking fuel situation in some form. These include states such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Kerala.

Misleading reports regarding gas shortages and pricing in certain regions have been circulating recently through social media and other channels, the Ministry said.

Citing additional pressure on the distribution system, the ministry noted that rumours have triggered unnecessary anxiety among the public, leading to instances of panic buying and hoarding in several areas.

Additionally, all states have been directed to continue taking strict action against black marketing, hoarding and other illicit activities.

The latest move is another attempt by the Modi government to reassure citizens that there is an adequate supply of LPG cylinders in the economy.

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