The Centre on Wednesday assured political parties in an all-party meeting that India’s energy security remains intact and more fuel shipments are on the way, as concerns over the escalating West Asia crisis
dominated an all-party meeting convened in Parliament.
The meeting, held around 5 pm inside Parliament and chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, saw the government brief leaders on the diplomatic, strategic, and economic fallout of the Iran-Israel-US conflict.
According to sources, the government told parties that there is no immediate cause for concern over India’s fuel situation and that adequate supplies of petroleum products and LPG are being maintained despite volatility in the region.
Officials also informed leaders that additional ships carrying critical fuel supplies are already en route to India, a key reassurance amid fears of disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz.
The Opposition, however, demanded that the issue be discussed formally in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha rather than being limited to a briefing.
Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge reportedly objected to the format of the meeting and sought a full parliamentary debate on the matter.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi did not attend the meeting, saying he was scheduled to be in Kerala. The Trinamool Congress was also absent, with party MP Saugata Roy saying no leader was available in Delhi.
Several opposition leaders sought clarity on India’s preparedness in case the conflict deepens, particularly with regard to oil stocks, LPG availability, and the impact on household energy supplies.
During the meeting, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri is learnt to have said that nearly 60 per cent of India’s LPG demand is met through domestic production, while the rest is being managed through imports and supply planning.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also responded to concerns over Pakistan’s reported diplomatic role in the crisis, saying Islamabad has been mediating in the region “since 1981”, indicating that its involvement should not be seen as unprecedented.
The Opposition also flagged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Israel, while some leaders questioned whether his recent references to the Covid period while urging preparedness could trigger unnecessary public panic.
The all-party meeting came after PM Modi addressed both Houses of Parliament earlier this week and warned that the impact of the West Asia conflict could be long-lasting.
The Prime Minister has said the government has already constituted seven empowered groups to monitor the fallout of the crisis, including on fuel, fertilisers, supply chains, logistics, and trade.
The meeting is being seen as part of the Centre’s effort to build political consensus while reassuring the public that India remains prepared to handle the economic and strategic impact of the escalating conflict in West Asia.
