Samajwadi Party MP Ram Gopal Yadav on Sunday accused the Union government of misleading the public about fuel availability amid concerns caused by disruptions in maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, as the conflict in West Asia continues into its second week. He said the ongoing tensions have created an energy crisis worldwide.

Yadav claimed that while shortages are being felt globally, the government is assuring citizens that sufficient stocks of LPG, petrol, and diesel are available. He noted that about 80 percent of India crude oil imports pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which he said is currently affected by the crisis. According to him, the country is suffering losses due to what he described as flawed government policies.

His remarks come as reports suggest a shortage of commercial LPG cylinders linked to the West Asia situation. Another Samajwadi Party MP, Awadhesh Prasad, also raised concerns, warning that the shortage could lead to rising inflation. He said the government panel formed to review supply issues would not be able to control the situation and predicted that the shortage of LPG cylinders could worsen, potentially impacting the economy and increasing prices.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has instructed oil refineries to boost LPG production and ensure that the additional output is directed toward domestic consumption. The move was taken in response to recent geopolitical developments that have disrupted global fuel supply chains.

To safeguard household energy needs during the uncertainty in the global oil market, the government has prioritized LPG supply for domestic consumers. The ministry also introduced a 25 day gap between LPG cylinder bookings to discourage hoarding and prevent black marketing, according to a statement shared on social media.