Government highlights India’s rare price stability in fuel despite global oil surge, says oil firms absorbed costs while urging citizens to ignore viral misinformation on social media.
Amritsar: Motorists wait to refuel at a petrol pump amid fears of a possible fuel shortage triggered by panic buying over supply concerns, in Amritsar on Thursday, March 26, 2026. (Photo: IANS)
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on Thursday pushed back against widespread speculation of an impending increase in petrol and diesel prices, stating clearly that no such move is being considered by the government.
The clarification comes at a time when chatter on social media has picked up around a possible revision in fuel prices after ongoing elections, especially amid firming global crude oil rates.
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In a post on X, the ministry said, “There are some news reports suggesting a price hike of petrol and diesel. It is hereby clarified that there is no such proposal under consideration by the Government.” It added, “Such news items are designed to create fear and panic amongst the citizens and are mischievous and misleading.”
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FAKE NEWS
There are some news reports suggesting a price hike of petrol and diesel. It is hereby clarified that there is no such proposal under consideration by the Government.
Such news items are designed to create fear and panic amongst the citizens and are mischievous and… pic.twitter.com/yTAfJdah2o— Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas #MoPNG (@PetroleumMin) April 23, 2026
The speculation appears to have been triggered by rising international crude prices and geopolitical tensions, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route. Reports of its closure and stalled US-Iran peace talks have pushed oil benchmarks higher, with Brent crude crossing the $103 per barrel mark.
Despite this volatility, the government maintained that domestic retail prices have been kept stable, with oil marketing companies absorbing global fluctuations to protect consumers from inflationary pressure.
The ministry also underlined that India stands out as the only country where petrol and diesel prices have not increased in the past four years. It said sustained efforts by the government and oil public sector undertakings have helped cushion citizens from steep global price swings.
Reassuring consumers, the government said fuel outlets across the country are functioning normally and there has been no disruption in supply. Officials also noted that even as several countries have seen sharp increases in fuel costs, India has maintained price stability.
On the LPG front, Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma confirmed that domestic supply remains normal, with no reports of shortages at distributor levels.
The ministry urged citizens to rely only on verified sources and not react to unconfirmed claims circulating online, reiterating that there has been no change in fuel prices and existing rates continue to apply.
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