Delhi Bans Direct LPG Cylinder Sales

The India===Delhi government has imposed a strict ban on the direct sale of LPG cylinders from godowns, with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stating that the supply is being closely monitored to prevent shortages and ensure adherence to norms. Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have instructed distributors that direct sales from storage points are illegal. The government has also expanded the availability of 5-kg LPG cylinders, which can now be purchased with a valid ID without address verification, particularly benefiting migrant workers. Eleven help desks have been set up at select Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) outlets. Enforcement actions include raids by India===Delhi Police at 17 locations and inspections by the India===Food and Supplies Department at 76 gas agencies. While the government asserts supply is stable, political parties like the India===Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and India===Indian National Congress (INC) have criticized the government, alleging black marketing, shortages, and incompetence in managing the situation, with the India===Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) responding to these claims.