No Petrol, Diesel Price Hike After Elections, Government Assures Amid Rumours
Amid widespread rumours about a possible fuel price hike after elections, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has clarified that there is no plan to increase petrol and diesel prices.
The clarification comes ahead of the final phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026, where speculation on social media suggested that fuel prices might rise once polling concludes.
Government Clarification
A senior official from the ministry stated that no proposal is under consideration to hike petrol or diesel prices. The government also urged citizens not to believe in rumours or engage in panic buying.
Panic Buying and Supply Impact
Due to the rumours, long queues were seen at petrol stations in states like Andhra Pradesh. Reports indicate that over 400 petrol bunks were temporarily closed due to sudden demand surge.
Adequate Fuel Availability
The government has assured that sufficient stock of petrol, diesel, and LPG cylinders is available across the country. Authorities are continuously monitoring supply to ensure smooth distribution.
Global Market Pressure
Fuel price concerns have risen due to increasing global crude oil prices, which have reportedly crossed $114 per barrel. Factors such as geopolitical tensions in West Asia and disruptions in oil transport routes like the Hormuz Strait have contributed to the surge.
Despite these challenges, domestic fuel prices have remained unchanged since 2022, although oil companies are reportedly facing significant losses.
