NewsFlash Daily™
14 March 
Karnataka Opposition Leader urges state government to act against black-market LPG sales instead of politicising the crisis
Bengaluru: Karnataka Leader of the Opposition R. Ashok has criticised Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, accusing him of politicising the ongoing LPG shortage in the state amid global tensions.
Speaking to reporters at the Bharatiya Janata Party office in Bengaluru, Ashok said the state leadership should avoid political statements during a time of international conflict and instead focus on resolving the crisis affecting citizens.
“Avoid Politics During War Situation”
Ashok stated that the LPG shortage was largely linked to the global situation created by the Iran–Israel conflict, which has affected supply chains and energy markets.
He urged the Chief Minister to set aside political differences and cooperate with authorities to manage the situation.
According to him, this is a time when governments should work together rather than engage in political criticism.
Reference to Minister Muniyappa
The BJP leader also mentioned that senior Congress leader K. H. Muniyappa, who previously served as a Union Minister, understands the situation better due to his experience at the national level.
Ashok suggested that Muniyappa’s statements on the issue were more balanced and reflected awareness of the broader geopolitical situation.
Action Against Black-Market Sales Demanded
Ashok further alleged that the Chief Minister was politicising the LPG shortage instead of addressing illegal activities.
He demanded that the Karnataka government take strict action against black-market sales of LPG cylinders, which have reportedly increased due to the supply crunch.
He also pointed out that the Government of India has already invoked the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) to ensure essential services remain operational during the crisis.
Call for Public Cooperation
Appealing to citizens, Ashok said people should cooperate with authorities during this difficult period, stressing that global conflicts can have temporary impacts on supply chains.
He reiterated that the state government’s priority should be preventing illegal LPG sales and ensuring fair distribution to the public, rather than engaging in political blame games.
