‘No signs of returning’: Government dismisses reports of migrant exodus amid LPG crises

The government has dismissed reports that migrant workers are returning to their home states in large numbers due to an LPG crisis linked to the ongoing war in the Middle East, citing ground-level assessments and stable supply indicators.

Sources told ANI that a week-long monitoring exercise conducted across major railway stations found no evidence of a mass movement of migrant workers.“After a week of monitoring, we found no signs of migrants returning to their native places in large numbers,” a senior official said.Officials tracked passenger footfall at key railway stations nationwide and reported no unusual surge that would indicate a large-scale exodus.

A fact-check report based on the assessment has been submitted to the Prime Minister’s Office.The clarification comes amid circulating claims that supply disruptions caused by the Middle East conflict have triggered panic among migrant workers, prompting them to return to their villages.In a high-level review meeting chaired by the secretary, ministry of petroleum and natural gas (MoPNG), states were directed to ensure uninterrupted LPG supply, prioritise domestic and essential needs, and maintain vigilance against hoarding, diversion and misinformation.

On concerns related to Free Trade LPG (FTL) supplies for migrant workers, states reported no disruption and said supplies remain stable. The Centre also suggested that states may manage targeted distribution of 5-kg FTL cylinders based on local requirements, in coordination with oil marketing companies.According to the ministry, multiple indicators point to a stable and improving LPG supply situation. Since March 23, around 6.75 lakh 5-kg FTL cylinders have been sold nationwide, while public sector oil companies have organised about 550 awareness camps, selling over 6,700 cylinders.No dry-outs have been reported at LPG distributorships, while online bookings have reached nearly 97% across the industry. Delivery Authentication Code-based deliveries have risen to about 90%, aimed at curbing diversion.Domestic LPG distribution has remained unaffected, with over 18 crore cylinders delivered to households since March 1, 2026.Officials reiterated that the situation is under control and urged citizens not to rely on rumours regarding LPG shortages.