1,000 FIRs, 2,250 raids, and 238 arrests: Govt cracks down on LPG black marketing amid shortage rumours

The central government on Monday said that it is taking strict action against those involved in black marketing and hoarding of LPG cylinders and petrol amid rumours of supply shortage due to the ongoing crisis in West Asia. Officials also assured consumers of a smooth supply of energy. 

“We are continuously in touch with state governments to stop diversion, black marketing and hoarding. Yesterday, there were at least 2,250 raids, and since March there more than 1,000 FIRs have been filed and 238 people have been arrested,” Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, said during a press briefing on Monday. 

“Furthermore, in surprising visits from the oil marketing companies, penalties have been imposed on 219 LPG distributors, and 26 LPG distributors have been suspended,” she added. 

Enforcement action has intensified across the country, with more than 1.28 lakh raids conducted and over 59,000 LPG cylinders seized since March 2026, she said. These steps are aimed at curbing illegal diversion and ensuring steady domestic supply. 

LPG supplies remain stable 

Despite concerns around disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, authorities maintained that LPG supplies remain stable. Domestic cylinder deliveries are continuing as usual, with most distributorships operating even on Sundays to avoid shortages. Online bookings have surged to nearly 98–99% across the industry, indicating a shift towards digital systems and reduced physical crowding. 

On the supply side, refineries are operating at high capacity and adequate stocks of petrol and diesel are being maintained. Retail fuel prices have been kept unchanged, supported by a recent ₹10 per litre cut in excise duty. 

Reducing dependence on fossil fuels 

At the same time, the government is accelerating its long-term strategy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The Ministry of Heavy Industries has extended the ₹10,900 crore PM E-DRIVE scheme to sustain electric vehicle (EV) adoption and manufacturing momentum. The e-two-wheeler segment has been extended till July 2026, while incentives for e-three-wheelers will continue till March 2028. 

Promoting domestic manufacturing of rare earth minerals 

In parallel, a ₹7,280-crore scheme to promote domestic manufacturing of rare earth permanent magnets is being rolled out to strengthen EV supply chains and reduce import dependence. 

Natural gas is also being pushed as an alternative, with city gas distribution companies expanding PNG connections. Since March, over 4.3 lakh new PNG connections have been activated, while more than 31,700 consumers have voluntarily surrendered LPG connections. 

On the logistics front, the India-flagged LPG vessel Jag Vikram, carrying about 20,400 metric tonnes of cargo, has safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz and is expected to arrive at Kandla port on April 14, providing further comfort on supply continuity. 

2,177 Indian seafarers repatriated safely from the Gulf region 

Meanwhile, the government said 2,177 Indian seafarers have been safely repatriated from the Gulf region so far, with Indian missions continuing to assist nationals and crew members amid the evolving situation. 

Officials reiterated that there is no need for panic buying and urged consumers to rely on official information, conserve energy, and adopt alternative fuels where possible.