New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday urged the government to remain prepared to deal with a possible shortage of LPG, claiming that the country could face a major challenge due to compromised energy security.
Gandhi said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had weakened the country’s energy security and warned that the situation could lead to serious problems. “The Prime Minister says there is no need to panic, but he himself appears worried for entirely different reasons,” he said.
He also alleged that the Prime Minister was anxious over the “Epstein–Adani case” and pointed out that the Prime Minister’s seat in the House was empty during proceedings. “He is telling the country not to panic while he himself looks troubled,” Gandhi said.
Earlier in the Lok Sabha, Speaker Om Birla presided over the House after February 10. Meanwhile, the opposition’s no-confidence motion was rejected on Wednesday.
Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said the world was witnessing an unprecedented phase in modern energy history. He asserted that India’s crude oil supply position remains secure.
Puri said the quantity of crude oil currently secured by India is equivalent to the amount that would have been received through the Strait of Hormuz. Before the crisis, nearly 45% of India’s crude imports came through the route.
He added that due to the Prime Minister’s diplomatic outreach and credibility, India has managed to secure crude volumes comparable to what would normally arrive through the Strait of Hormuz during the same period.
Puri also urged people to avoid rumours and said the country must collectively face the energy challenge. “This is not the time for speculation. The nation must work together to address the energy crisis,” he said.
