LPG distributors protest in Delhi over pending commissions, connection policies and operational issues, warning of a nationwide strike within a month
NEW DELHI: More than 4,000 LPG distributors from across India gathered at CBD Ground in New Delhi on Monday to demand a revision of distributor commissions, a review of LPG connection policies and solutions to long-pending operational concerns. The LPG Distributors Association (India), which organised the protest, warned that distributors could launch a nationwide strike if the government failed to address their demands within a month.
Distributors and association representatives from several states and Union Territories attended the demonstration. Participants included Dhanotia K. K., Gurpal Mann, Ashutosh Garg, Piyush and Shweta, along with state presidents and other association members.
LPG Distributors Demand Commission Revision
B. S. Sharma, national president of the LPG Distributors Association (India), said the association had been seeking a comprehensive revision of distributor commissions since 2018.
He argued that rising LPG prices and operating expenses had increased the financial burden on distributors, while their commissions had not kept pace.
Sharma cited changes in domestic and commercial LPG prices to support the demand. According to him, domestic LPG prices had increased from around ₹450 to ₹1,000, while commercial LPG prices had risen from ₹1,100 to ₹3,033.
He also referred to interim relief provided in 2022 following a study on commission revisions. However, he maintained that a comprehensive review remained pending despite repeated representations to the government.
Association Opposes LPG Supply Policy in PNG Areas
The association also raised objections to a government order dated March 24, 2026, concerning LPG supplies in areas where piped natural gas (PNG) infrastructure is available.
Sharma said the policy could affect LPG distributors’ businesses and restrict consumer choice, particularly in locations where private companies are expanding PNG networks.
The association called for a review of the policy and measures to address its potential impact on distributors and consumers.
Concerns Over LPG e-KYC Verification
Another issue raised during the protest concerned the reported suspension of around 3.16 crore LPG connections over incomplete electronic know-your-customer (e-KYC) verification.
Sharma questioned the rationale behind the restrictions and referred to the Supreme Court’s judgment in K. S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India while raising concerns about biometric verification requirements.
The association’s figures and interpretation of the legal position require independent verification. The protest statement did not establish the precise number of affected consumers or the circumstances of each suspension.
Distributors Raise Concerns Over Oil Marketing Companies
The association alleged that officials of oil marketing companies had interfered in distributors’ operations. It claimed that changes to distributor indents could affect supply quantities and cause financial losses.
Distributors also alleged that they faced pressure to sell additional products, including gas stoves, rubber tubes, lighters and aprons.
The association called for operational concerns to be reviewed and for distributors to receive greater clarity about supply procedures and business requirements.
Protesters Cite Access Restrictions at Venue
Sharma also raised concerns about arrangements at the protest venue. He alleged that barricades and restrictions affecting public transport and access prevented some distributors from reaching CBD Ground.
According to him, these difficulties affected participation despite the association’s efforts to organise a peaceful demonstration.
Nationwide LPG Distributors’ Strike Possible Within a Month
The association has given the government one month to respond to its demands. These include revising distributor commissions, reviewing LPG connection policies and resolving operational issues.
Sharma warned that distributors could consider a nationwide strike if the government did not take action within the deadline.
The association said it remained open to discussions with the government but wanted a time-bound response to its concerns.
