'Did They Boil It?': Bengaluru Cafe's 5% 'Gas Crisis' Fee On Lemonade Sparks Online Debate

Last Updated:March 16, 2026, 16:37 IST

The unusual fee, applied on a bill for two mint lemonades, has left many users amused and some questioning its fairness.

A Bengaluru-based cafe has drawn attention on social media after adding a 5 per cent “Gas Crisis Charge" to a customer’s lemonade order, sparking debate on social media platform X. The unusual fee, applied on a bill for two mint lemonades, has left many users amused and some questioning its fairness.

The cafe in question, Theo Cafe, included the charge of Rs 17.01 on top of the drinks, which were priced at Rs 179 each. After applying a 5 per cent discount and standard GST components, the final bill came to Rs 374.

A photo of the receipt has been widely shared, prompting reactions ranging from playful to critical.

Some users joked, “Nimbu garam karke daala hai kya?" and “Next what? Bangalore charging for change in weather," while others questioned the legality and justification of the fee.

A few defended the cafe, noting that rising LPG costs could make such a small charge reasonable, though they suggested it should be optional for customers.

“When a person is good to afford ₹179 for a mere lemonade which would otherwise cost ₹10-15, another ₹17 shouldn’t burden any further. Also, a discount of ₹18 is already provided, nullifying the charge levied," a user wrote.

ALSO READ: LPG Crisis Or Panic Buying? Bookings Jump By 13 Lakh In A Day, Centre Asks States To Take Control

This comes amid disruptions in LPG supply across India. The war in West Asia have slowed shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a key transit route for around 90 per cent of India’s LPG imports. India heavily relies on West Asia for roughly 60 per cent of its LPG needs, 50 per cent of natural gas, and 88 per cent of crude oil.

These disruptions have led to supply concerns, sporadic panic buying, and perceived shortages at restaurants, hotels, and public canteens.

Earlier today, the central government said that while the LPG situation remains concerning, there has been no complete shortage. CNG and PNG supplies are fully available, and petrol pumps have not reported any dry-ups.

The government also said they are prioritising domestic consumers, ensuring continuous LPG supply for households and priority sectors, and coordinating with states to prevent hoarding. Commercial sales have partially resumed.

News viral 'Did They Boil It?': Bengaluru Cafe's 5% 'Gas Crisis' Fee On Lemonade Sparks Online Debate

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