In response to widespread concern among students, workers, and migrant laborers following an Odisha minister’s announcement regarding a ban on the sale of 5 kg gas cylinders in the open market, the state government issued a clarification on Monday. Officials confirmed that no such restriction is currently in place.
Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Secretary Sanjay Singh stated, “There is no ban on 5 kg cylinders distributed by oil marketing companies (OMCs). Students, workers, and migrant laborers can purchase 5 kg cylinders by presenting their identification cards, with no requirement for address verification. Furthermore, OMCs are facilitating the provision of 5 kg cylinders through domestic connections after the completion of e-KYC processes.” He emphasized that the enforcement actions are specifically aimed at addressing black market activities related to cooking gas.
The government also noted that OMCs are organizing distribution camps for 5 kg cylinders in areas where there is a demand.
On Sunday, Odisha’s Supplies Minister Krushna Chandra Patra had declared a total ban on the open market sale of 5 kg cylinders, suggesting that this measure would help combat black marketing of cooking gas within the state.
The announcement caused considerable alarm, particularly among students, laborers, and migrant workers in urban settings who rely on these smaller cylinders due to the absence of official LPG connections.
The opposition party, BJD, criticized the minister’s comments as “immature,” claiming that such statements were creating unnecessary confusion to distract from the ongoing LPG supply issues.
Secretary Singh reassured the public that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, or LPG in the state and urged citizens to remain calm. He stated, “Whenever we receive reports regarding an LPG shortage in any district, the committee led by district collectors communicates with the OMCs to resolve the issues as quickly as possible.”
The government has intensified its efforts to combat black marketing and the hoarding of LPG cylinders. Inspections conducted by the civil supplies corporation have so far targeted 1,633 locations, resulting in the seizure of over 3,000 cylinders. A total of 288 cases have been filed under the Essential Commodities Act, with 19 FIRs lodged and five individuals arrested, according to an official statement.
Despite the government’s clarification, long lines were reported outside gas distribution agencies, as individuals hurried to complete their e-KYC registrations.
Sujit Bisoyi is a Special Correspondent with the Indian Express, focusing on Odisha. His reporting interests include politics, policy, and human interest stories. You can follow him on Twitter at @bisoyisujit87.
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