The ongoing LPG and CNG crisis in West Bengal has taken a dramatic political turn as Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee issued a direct warning to the Central Government. Following a high-level review meeting at Nabanna with oil companies and distributors, the Chief Minister declared that refined gas produced within West Bengal’s refineries—including Haldia and Durgapur—should not be diverted or exported outside the state until local demand is fully met.

Expressing deep concern over the 25-day mandatory gap for booking cylinders in urban areas and 45 days in rural belts, Mamata Banerjee called these rules “irrational and anti-people.” She questioned how common households, schools for mid-day meals, and hospitals are expected to function under such supply constraints. “People cannot stop eating. The Centre must explain why there is such a massive disruption in supply despite promises of normalcy,” she stated.

To curb hoarding and black marketing, the state government is introducing a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). District Magistrates and Police Superintendents have been tasked with ensuring that no dealer charges excessive prices or creates artificial shortages. Mamata’s move to restrict the outflow of gas produced in Bengal marks a significant escalation in the ongoing power struggle between the state and the Union government over essential resources. As public anxiety grows, the “Gas Crisis” has now become the latest flashpoint in Bengal politics.