The Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) on Monday criticised the BJP-led Mahayuti government and linked recent panic buying of fuel and gas in parts of Maharashtra to lack of transparency on the situation, reported the IANS.
The party urged the state to provide clear and transparent information about the country’s energy reserves instead of warning citizens against spreading rumours.
In an editorial published in its mouthpiece Saamana, the Shiv Sena (UBT) said that the transparency would help reduce panic and prevent misinformation.
The editorial alleged that the current wave of panic began in Gujarat, where long queues were reportedly seen at petrol pumps and gas agencies. It claimed that people were stockpiling fuel due to fears of shortages, according to the PTI.
According to the party, this anxiety is linked to past experiences such as demonetisation and the COVID-19 lockdown, which had triggered similar reactions among citizens.
Impact on businesses and services
The editorial further claimed that nearly 50 per cent of hotels and roadside eateries in Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra have shut down due to an alleged gas shortage, the news agency reported.
It also stated that industries have been affected, with foundries in western Maharashtra halting operations and several tile manufacturing units in Morbi, Gujarat, reportedly shutting down.
The party linked the situation to the ongoing tensions involving Iran and Israel, which have impacted the Strait of Hormuz — a key route for India’s LPG imports.
While the government has maintained that sufficient fuel stocks are available, the editorial claimed that public confidence remains low.
Alleged contradictions in govt statements
According to the IANS, the party pointed to what it described as conflicting statements by leaders, including Devendra Fadnavis and Chhagan Bhujbal, as contributing to confusion.
It also cited the reported resumption of kerosene distribution as an indicator of underlying supply concerns.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) demanded that the government release detailed data on fuel stocks, daily supply, LPG imports, and shipping movements through the Strait of Hormuz.
It said such measures would help counter rumours and restore public trust.
Warning over erosion of trust
The editorial concluded that without transparency, speculation would continue to grow. It warned that rumours thrive when public trust weakens and called for clear communication from the government.
(with IANS inputs)
