Mamata Banerjee’s strict stance on LPG crisis: Ban on sending out Bengal’s gas stock, Center cornered on 25 day rule

Kolkata: The heat of the war that broke out in the Middle East (Iran-Israel) has now reached the kitchen of West Bengal. In view of the possible shortage of cooking gas and increasing nervousness among the general public, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has adopted a tough stance on Wednesday. The Chief Minister held a high-level meeting with oil companies and gas dealers, in which he gave clear instructions that West Bengal’s quota gas will not be sent to any other state at present. The Chief Minister warned that it is imperative to give priority to the needs of the state’s consumers amid global instability.Emergency meeting in Nabanna and preparation of new SOPChief Minister Mamata Banerjee has prepared a comprehensive strategy regarding the energy security of the state:Emergency Review: An emergency meeting has been called at the state secretariat ‘Nabanna’ on Thursday, in which officials of the concerned departments will have a detailed discussion on streamlining the supply chain.Standard Operating Procedure (SOP): The government will soon issue guidelines for gas dealers. Will issue a guideline, so that the sudden increase in ‘supply pressure’ can be managed and hoarding of stock can be stopped. Essential Services Secure: Gas distributors have assured the government that there will be no cut in the gas supply of mid-day meals, health centers (Hospitals), and Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) centres. Mamata Banerjee targeted the Center on the 25-day booking rule. 25 days between LPG booking by the Central Government. Strongly criticized the decision to impose a mandatory margin of Rs. 10,000. “Imposing such rules without any preparation or alternative arrangements is creating anxiety and panic among consumers. This is the result of wrong policies of the Petroleum Ministry.” — Mamata Banerjee, Chief Minister These sectors will be hit the most The Chief Minister stressed that the LPG shortage is not limited to households only, but will impact many smaller segments of the state’s economy: Auto drivers: Those who depend on vehicles equipped with cooking gas (LPG) kits. Small food outlets: Dhabas and small shops that use commercial gas on a daily basis. Government schemes: Continuation of the mid-day meal program for school children. Political sarcasm: ‘Elections or daily needs?’ Mamata Banerjee alleged that the central government is more focused on ‘election-related matters’ rather than solving the basic needs of the people and the energy crisis. He said that it is the responsibility of the Center to ensure supply and the state government will explore every possible option from its side so that the people of Bengal do not have to face difficulties.