Strict action against LPG hoarding and black marketing: Home Minister G Parameshwara

Tumakuru: Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara on Saturday warned of strict legal action against individuals hoarding LPG cylinders or selling them in the black market amid concerns over supply disruptions caused by the ongoing tensions in West Asia.

Speaking to reporters in Tumakuru, Parameshwara said the government has directed police across the state to closely monitor the situation and take action against anyone attempting to exploit the shortage.

“If anyone tries to stockpile LPG cylinders or sell them in the black market, strict action will be taken. Police across the state have been instructed to keep a close watch. We will not allow such illegal activities,” he said.

The Home Minister said the current concerns over LPG availability are linked to disruptions in global supply chains due to the conflict in the West Asian region. The crisis has triggered panic buying in some areas, leading to fears of artificial shortages.

However, Parameshwara clarified that officials have assured the government that there is no shortage of domestic LPG cylinders supplied to households.

“According to the information provided by officials, there is no problem with the supply of cooking gas cylinders meant for households. People need not panic,” he said.

At the same time, he acknowledged that commercial LPG cylinders used by hotels and restaurants are facing some supply constraints. “Hotels and commercial establishments may face some difficulties for a day or two. Efforts are being made to resolve the issue at the earliest,” the minister said.

Responding to reports that two Indian ships carrying energy supplies reached Mumbai through the Strait of Hormuz after Iran provided certain relaxations, Parameshwara expressed hope that supplies from Gulf countries would stabilize soon.

“We are hopeful that the supply of gas and oil from Gulf nations will improve soon and the situation will normalize,” he added.

Meanwhile, addressing questions on internal reservation in recruitment, Parameshwara said Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has convened a special cabinet meeting on March 27 to discuss the matter.”We expect the issue to be resolved during the cabinet meeting. After the cabinet decision, the government will issue the necessary order and the recruitment process will begin,” he said.

The state government has already announced plans to fill more than 56,000 vacant posts, including 8,000 positions in the Home Department, Parameshwara said. “Once internal reservation is implemented, we will immediately start the recruitment process,” he added.