Rahul Gandhi criticises PM Narendra Modi during a protest over LPG shortage, claiming the Prime Minister is “panicked” while asking the public to remain calm.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi during protests by opposition MPs over the reported shortage of commercial LPG cylinders affecting businesses across the country.

Speaking to reporters at the Parliament House complex, Gandhi accused the Prime Minister of asking citizens not to panic while allegedly being “panicked himself for completely different reasons.” He linked his remarks to what he described as concerns related to the Epstein files controversy and a case involving industrialist Gautam Adani in the United States.

The comments came after opposition MPs from parties including the Congress, DMK, TMC and Samajwadi Party staged a demonstration near Parliament’s Makar Dwar. Leaders raised slogans and demanded a detailed discussion on the impact of the West Asia conflict on India’s fuel supply. Some women MPs, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, staged a symbolic protest using a mock brick stove to highlight the LPG issue.

The opposition has been pushing for a full debate in Parliament on the geopolitical situation and its effects on energy supply chains. Commercial LPG shortages have reportedly begun affecting restaurants, caterers and small eateries in several cities.

Prime Minister Modi had earlier appealed to citizens not to panic, assuring that the government would safeguard public interest while dealing with the situation. Officials have also stated that domestic LPG supplies for households remain secure, even as businesses dependent on commercial cylinders explore alternatives such as induction cooktops, microwaves or firewood.

The confrontation in Parliament reflects how global conflicts can quickly become domestic political flashpoints. As the energy supply situation evolves, both the government and opposition are expected to continue sparring over how the crisis is being handled.