Bhubaneswar, 05 April (H.S.): The decision of the Odisha government to stop open sale of LPG and ban the sale of 5 kg gas cylinders has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties, including the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Indian National Congress.

BJD MLA Ananta Narayan Jena termed the move “unfortunate” and warned that it could lead to severe hardship for common people. He expressed concern that students, small families, and economically weaker sections would struggle to access cooking gas.

“The government is unable to supply gas adequately. Hotels are already being affected, and such a decision may increase black marketing. This could even lead to a situation of hunger in the coming days,” Jena said, urging the government to reconsider the decision.

Meanwhile, Congress MLA Tarabahini Pati also strongly opposed the move, stating that poor households largely depend on small 5 kg cylinders due to affordability.

He warned that the decision would disproportionately impact low-income groups. “People who cannot afford larger cylinders rely on 5 kg LPG. This move may push them into extreme distress. The government should not force us to take to the streets in protest,” he said, adding that the party strongly condemns the decision.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda