A brewing crisis over LPG supplies in Maharashtra has reached the doors of the Bombay High Court.
The Nagpur Bench recently flagged a “serious issue” following a petition that claims domestic gas is being shipped abroad while local kitchens and businesses are left waiting.
Here’s the breakdown of the legal battle and what it means for consumers.
The Heart of the Dispute:
Six LPG distributors from the Vidarbha region have moved court against Confidence Petroleum India Ltd (CPIL) and the Central Government.
Their main grievance?
While districts like Nagpur face an acute shortage of gas cylinders, CPIL is allegedly prioritising international exports to cash in on high global prices.
Key Allegations from the Plea
- Prioritising Profits: The petitioners claim CPIL is diverting massive stock for export, leaving domestic distributors (who rely on them for 100% of their supply) stranded.
- The Global Factor: The shortage is being worsened by geopolitical tensions, specifically the Iran-Israel conflict, which has choked supply lines through the Strait of Hormuz.
- Local Impact: Small industries, hotels, and thousands of households in Maharashtra are facing delays and supply gaps due to this alleged “export-first” approach.
What the Court Said
Justices Anil S. Kilor and Raj D. Wakode didn’t mince words, calling the situation a matter of grave importance. The court has:
- Issued Notices: To the Union Government, the Ministry of Petroleum, and CPIL to explain the supply disparity.
- Interim Orders: Directed CPIL to ensure that domestic storage and supply strictly follow the Central Government’s current policy rather than prioritizing external trade.
The Company’s Stance
CPIL has denied any wrongdoing, stating they are simply fulfilling pre-existing contractual obligations for export. However, in a sign of the pressure mounting, the company chairman mentioned they are looking into diverting an upcoming LPG vessel to India instead of sending it abroad.
What’s Next?
The court is set to revisit the matter on March 17, 2026. Until then, the focus remains on whether the government will step in to mandate a “domestic first” rule to stabilize prices and availability.