Sanjay Raut Accuses Government of Spreading 'Official Rumour' on LPG Shortage
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut launched a scathing attack on the Centre on Saturday, dismissing claims that there is no LPG shortage in the country as an "official rumour" propagated by the government. Raut asserted that this narrative is being deliberately spread to prevent an increase in cylinder prices, even as the nation grapples with the repercussions of the ongoing conflict in Gulf countries.
Raut Highlights Impact on Unorganised Sector and Employment
Raut painted a grim picture of the current situation, stating, "The country is facing a very serious situation due to the war in the Gulf countries. There is no shortage of LPG, everything is in order ... these rumours are being officially spread by the govt that the price of cylinders will not increase." He criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for being preoccupied with election campaigns in states like West Bengal, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, while ignoring the crisis at home.
He further elaborated on the ground realities, noting that long queues for cylinders have become commonplace, with fears that supplies might be unavailable for up to 25 days. The unorganised sector, particularly the hotel industry, has been severely impacted, with approximately 40% of establishments shutting down due to the lack of LPG. This has triggered a significant employment issue, exacerbating the economic strain on workers.
Criticism of Government Silence and International Policy Failures
Raut expressed frustration over the silence of key political figures, including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar, as well as the Prime Minister and Home Minister. He drew a parallel to the demonetisation era, recalling how people suffered in queues, and labeled the current government as "anti-people." According to Raut, this dire situation is a direct consequence of the government's failures in international politics.
He also addressed the geopolitical tensions, specifically referencing the Israel-Iran conflict. Raut debunked rumours of dialogue between India and Iran, clarifying that Iran has not confirmed any such discussions. He emphasized the necessity of communication with Iran but questioned the government's credibility, citing its failure to express condolences over the killing of Iran's supreme leader in an Israeli attack. Raut argued that India should have taken a neutral stance and shared Iran's grief, especially given the tragic loss of over 200 young girls in the war. He lamented, "No condolences were expressed on it yet. Is our relationship with Iran only up to the point of allowing oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz? No, we have diplomatic relations with Iran."
Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde Hits Back Over Mithi River Gas Reserve Claims
In a related development, Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde responded sharply to Sanjay Raut's comments regarding the discovery of the world's largest natural gas reserve in the Mithi River drain. Raut had earlier suggested that the BJP demanded it be declared national wealth immediately.
Tawde countered this by questioning the authenticity of the claim, stating, "There's a huge fuss about the discovery of the world's largest natural gas reserve in the Mithi River, but what's the reality? For the past 25 years, the 'Penguin Sena' in power in BMC turned Mumbai's rivers into open drains." She dismissed the notion of natural wealth, instead attributing it to incompetence and an extortion racket under Shiv Sena (UBT)'s rule.
Tawde announced plans for a thorough investigation into what she termed the "Mithi scam," asserting, "This isn't a gas reserve; it's a monument to the corruption of Shiv Sena (UBT)." Her remarks highlight the ongoing political friction in Mumbai, with both sides trading accusations over governance and environmental issues.
The exchange underscores the deepening political divide and the urgent need for clarity on resource management and international diplomacy amid escalating global conflicts.
