Following the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) crisis triggered by the Iran–United States (US) war, Maharashtra Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal on Monday informed the legislative council that authorities have seized 1,208 cylinders during a crackdown on illegal activities across the state. According to statistics shared by the minister, 23 cases have been registered, and goods worth Rs 33.66 lakh have been confiscated. The police have also arrested 18 people in connection with the cases so far.
Bhujbal was replying to queries raised by members of the Maharashtra Legislative Council over people standing in long queues for hours, allegations of black marketing of cylinders, and reports of several hotels, citizens, and educational institutions facing shortages or being forced to shut their eateries due to the non-availability of gas cylinders.
Maharashtra LPG Shortage: Committees formed to probe irregularities, says minister
The minister further stated that the issue is related to the Government of India and that the Centre has already clarified that adequate stocks are available. He appealed to citizens not to panic, avoid standing in long queues and refrain from encouraging black marketing. The minister also informed the House that district collectors and superintendents of police have been asked to form committees and conduct inquiries into complaints of irregularities in gas distribution.
