People made to stand in queues like at demonetisation: Dotasra on LPG crisis

Jaipur: Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra Thursday launched a sharp attack on the Centre and the state govt over the LPG crisis, saying that people were being forced to stand in long queues for cylinders like at the time of demonetisation of currency notes in 2016.

Addressing a presser at the party's state headquarters here, Dotasra announced that Congress would organise protests and demonstrations across Rajasthan against the LPG crisis, and warned of a statewide agitation if the govt did not ensure uninterrupted supply.


Dotasra mentioned that domestic LPG cylinder prices had been increased by Rs 60, and of commercial cylinders by Rs 115, and yet people were unable to get cooking cas due to supply disruptions and crippled bookings.

"The central and state govts have left people to their own devices in this time of crisis, just as they did during demonetisation," he said.

Dotasra said the crisis had severely impacted sectors like tourism, hospitality, transport, and small industries. He said restaurants, hostels, and hotel kitchens were struggling while many industries had reduced or halted production. He cited reported job losses of 3,000 workers after the closure of Borosil factory in Jaipur.

He also warned agriculture could be affected if fertiliser production declined due to gas supply disruptions.

Targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Dotasra questioned why the Pachpadra oil refinery in Rajasthan was not yet operational despite all work being completed. He said production at the refinery could have helped ease the fuel and LPG crisis. "The refinery should be started immediately instead of delaying its inauguration," he said.

Dotasra demanded relief measures from the govt, including electricity bill waivers for affected industries and financial assistance for workers who lost their jobs. He also called for strict action against black marketing and hoarding of gas cylinders.

Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully accused the govt of creating panic by increasing cylinder prices and halting commercial supply. He demanded that the govt issue a white paper detailing the state's LPG stock and demand.

"Instead of helping people during the crisis, the govt has worsened the situation by raising the prices of gas cylinders. Instead of providing assistance during the crisis, it has increased the panic by raising prices. Black marketing of gas cylinders is on the rise. The govt should come forward and clarify its stance on how to stop this black marketing," he said.