Opposition Stages Fiery Protest in Parliament Over LPG Shortage Amid Iran-Israel Tensions

Chaos in Parliament Forces Adjournment

Opposition leaders led by Congress MP Rahul Gandhi created an uproar in Parliament on Thursday over the growing scarcity of LPG cylinders across the country, forcing the House to be adjourned for the day. The protest took place during the ongoing Budget Session as opposition members demanded an immediate discussion on the nationwide cooking gas shortage and rising prices.

Members from several opposition parties gathered in the Parliament premises, raising slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and accusing the government of failing to address the crisis affecting millions of households.

LPG Shortage Hits Cities Across India

Reports from multiple cities suggest a severe shortage of LPG cylinders. Long queues have been seen outside gas distribution centres, and delivery delays of up to a month have been reported in cities such as Bhopal. In Mumbai, commercial gas supply disruptions are threatening the hotel and restaurant industry, while rising prices are adding to the burden on ordinary households.

Experts say the shortage is linked to global oil market disruptions triggered by the ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel in the Middle East. The conflict has pushed up energy prices and created fears that the strategic Strait of Hormuz could face temporary closure, a move that would disrupt global energy supplies.

Rahul Gandhi Targets PM Modi

Speaking to reporters during the protest, Rahul Gandhi sharply criticised Prime Minister Modi.

“PM is saying there is no need to panic. But PM himself is panicked for completely different reasons. He is panicked because of the Adani case and Epstein. He cannot come inside the House. He is telling the country not to panic while he himself is panicked,” Gandhi said.

Shashi Tharoor Demands Parliamentary Discussion

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor also called for transparency and accountability from the government, stressing that such pressing issues should be debated in Parliament.

“Such issues should be discussed in Parliament. The government should be informed. You know how long the lines are for LPG cylinders and that prices have been increased. This is a platform to raise these concerns,” Tharoor said, adding that the government must address public problems openly instead of acting arbitrarily.

Opposition Seeks Immediate Government Response

The protest reflects mounting public frustration as the LPG shortage continues to affect households and businesses across India. Opposition leaders are demanding a detailed discussion in Parliament to clarify the government’s strategy for dealing with the crisis and to reassure citizens during a time of global geopolitical uncertainty.