'Trust the Government on LPG Crisis': HC closes dealer’s Plea on Supply Concerns

Today, the Bombay High Court has closed a petition filed by LPG dealers alleging diversion of domestic supply for exports amid shortages, after the Centre assured that steps are being taken to manage the crisis triggered by the Iran-Israel conflict. The Court chose to rely on the government’s position, signalling judicial restraint in matters involving evolving economic and diplomatic considerations.

The petition, filed by LPG dealers from Maharashtra, raised concerns over supply disruptions and alleged that liquefied petroleum gas was being prioritised for export despite domestic scarcity. The dealers pointed to the impact of the Middle East conflict on supply chains and accused Confidence Petroleum India Ltd (CPIL) of diverting LPG, causing hardship to local consumers.

The Court had earlier sought responses from the Union government and CPIL. In response, the Centre submitted that the situation was dynamic and involved sensitive international negotiations, making detailed disclosures in court impractical.

Recording the submissions of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, the Court noted that the government was actively engaging at the diplomatic level and taking necessary steps to safeguard the domestic supply. Emphasising the limits of judicial intervention in such policy matters, the Centre submitted, “There are negotiations at diplomatic level… The Court can consider closing this, trusting the government.” The Bench accepted this stance, observing that the issue required executive handling given its wider implications, and accordingly closed the petition while leaving it open for authorities to address any specific local grievances.

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