The North News
New Delhi, March 12
The Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has told parliament there is no shortage of petrol, diesel or kerosene in the country despite the ongoing crisis in West Asia.
Speaking in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, Puri said fuel retail outlets across India remained well stocked and supply chains were functioning normally. He urged people not to spread rumours or “fake narratives” about shortages, adding that the government’s priority was to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply for India’s 330 million households.
The minister said diplomatic efforts led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi had helped India secure enough crude oil supplies despite disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route for global energy supplies. The remarks came after concerns raised by opposition leader Rahul Gandhi during a debate in parliament.
Gandhi warned that the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran could have serious consequences for India’s energy security.
He said the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which about a fifth of the world’s oil passes, could affect fuel supplies and prices in India.
Gandhi also alleged that the government had compromised India’s ability to independently decide from whom it buys oil and gas, referring to reports about restrictions linked to purchases from Russia.
His remarks triggered protests from members of the ruling party in the House.
With PTI Inputs
