The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court has issued notices to the Union government and a private firm over a plea by LPG distributors demanding increased domestic cooking gas cylinder supplies. This comes amid an energy crunch triggered by the ongoing Iran war disrupting global crude flows.
Court Directives
On March 12, 2026, Justices Anil S. Kilor and Raj D. Wakode directed the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), and Confidence Petroleum India Ltd to respond by March 17. In the interim, the court mandated strict adherence to the government’s policy prioritizing household LPG distribution over exports.
Petition Details
Six Nagpur-based distributors accused Confidence Petroleum of failing to boost domestic supplies despite ministry orders. They procure LPG from the firm for households, hotels, and small industries across Maharashtra, claiming the Iran conflict has strained production while exports continue.
Broader Context
The plea highlights LPG shortages hitting urban centers, with even Delhi HC’s canteen limiting services due to cylinder unavailability. The Centre has urged states to monitor supplies daily as Middle East tensions threaten India’s heavy reliance on imported energy.
