Prakash Raj Sparks Firestorm Over LPG Crisis in Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Chennai

March 10, 2026: National Award-winning actor and outspoken activist Prakash Raj has once again stirred the political pot, this time taking aim at the government over the crippling Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) shortage currently paralyzing major Indian metros.

As of March 10, 2026, residents and business owners in Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Chennai are grappling with a severe supply crunch. Taking to social media, Raj didn’t mince words, directly challenging supporters of the ruling administration with a provocative query: “Let’s see how bhakts react.”

The Crisis: Empty Stoves and Closed Shutters

The situation on the ground has escalated rapidly over the past 48 hours. What began as a price hike—with domestic cylinders jumping by ₹60 and commercial ones by ₹115 last Saturday—has morphed into a full-blown supply vacuum.

• Bengaluru: The Bangalore Hotels Association has warned of mass closures, stating that many eateries have already run out of commercial gas.
• Mumbai: Reports suggest nearly 20% of restaurants in areas like Dadar and Andheri have suspended operations or limited their menus to avoid slow-cooking dishes.
• Chennai: Hotel associations have petitioned the Prime Minister’s Office, describing the situation as “critical” as distributors report zero stock.

The shortage is largely attributed to escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia, which have disrupted key shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz. While the government has prioritized domestic supply for households, the commercial sector has been left in the lurch.

Prakash Raj’s Scathing Critique

Prakash Raj, known for his “Just Asking” campaign, used the crisis to highlight the plight of the common man. In a viral post, he noted that the shortage isn’t just affecting luxury; it is hitting homes, small hotels, and even crematoriums.

“Dear citizens, as we see… homes, hotels and even crematoriums are affected. Let’s see how Gobhi bhakts react,” Raj wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

His comments serve as a direct jab at the narrative of “Aatmanirbharta” (self-reliance), suggesting that the government’s planning has failed to shield the public from global volatility.

A Divided Digital Battlefield

The actor’s remarks have, as expected, triggered a polarized response:

1. The Critics: Many users accused Raj of “politicizing a global tragedy.” Supporters of the administration pointed out that the crisis stems from an external war and that the government is actively scouting alternative suppliers like the US and Australia.
2. The Supporters: Conversely, many frustrated citizens echoed Raj’s sentiments. Critics of the government, including leaders from the Congress party who have dubbed the PM “Inflation Man,” argue that the suddenness of the shortage proves a lack of strategic reserves.

Government Response and Road Ahead

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has moved to calm the nerves of the public. A high-level committee has been formed to review commercial LPG distribution. To prevent hoarding, the government has also extended the mandatory interval between domestic cylinder bookings from 21 to 25 days.

While officials claim India has enough reserves for 40 days, the hospitality industry remains skeptical. “If the supply isn’t restored in 48 hours, half of Mumbai’s restaurants could go dark,” warned a spokesperson for the Mumbai Hotels and Restaurants Association (AHAR).

As the “gas war” continues both in the kitchens and on social media, Prakash Raj’s comments have ensured that the LPG crisis remains at the center of the national conversation.