LPG Crisis 2026: Centre Tells Bombay High Court Issue Not Fit for Judicial Review

Amid the ongoing LPG supply concerns in India, the Centre has informed the Bombay High Court that the situation is dynamic and may not be suitable for judicial intervention.

The statement came during a hearing before the Nagpur bench, where the court was reviewing the matter through a suo motu plea related to the cooking gas shortage.

Centre’s Stand on LPG Crisis

Representing the government, Tushar Mehta told the court:

• The LPG situation is influenced by international developments

• It is constantly evolving and being monitored

• Judicial proceedings may not be the appropriate platform to address such issues

The Centre emphasised that the matter involves complex global supply factors, requiring policy-level decisions rather than court intervention.

Government Assures Adequate Supply

The government assured the court that:

• All necessary remedial measures are being taken

• Efforts are ongoing to ensure uninterrupted domestic LPG supply

• Steps are in place to minimise the impact of global disruptions

This comes at a time when reports of long queues at gas agencies have raised public concern.

Court Disposes of Plea

After considering the Centre’s submission:

• The Nagpur bench disposed of the suo motu plea

• The court acknowledged the government’s assurance

• No further judicial intervention was deemed necessary at this stage

Global Factors Behind the Crisis

The LPG supply challenge is linked to:

• Heavy reliance on imports

• Dependence on sensitive routes like the Strait of Hormuz

• Ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting energy supplies

These factors have made the situation unpredictable and difficult to manage through legal oversight alone.

Impact on Consumers

Across several regions:

• Consumers have reported delays in cylinder delivery

• Gas agencies have seen increased demand and queues

• Concerns over pricing and availability continue

A Policy-Driven Challenge

The Centre’s response highlights that the LPG crisis is primarily a policy and supply-chain issue, influenced by global conditions rather than domestic administrative lapses alone.

As the situation evolves, the government is expected to continue balancing supply stability, pricing, and public demand.