Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Apr 23: The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on Thursday dismissed reports claiming a hike in petrol and diesel prices after Assembly elections in five states, calling them “fake” and asserting that no such proposal is under consideration.
In a post on X, the ministry said reports suggesting an increase in fuel prices were misleading and aimed at creating unnecessary panic.
“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,” the ministry said.
“Such news items are designed to create fear and panic amongst the citizens and are mischievous and misleading,” it added.
The ministry also asserted that India is the only country where petrol and diesel prices have not increased in the last four years.
“Govt of India and Oil PSUs have taken relentless steps in order to insulate the Indian citizens from steep increases in international prices,” the post said.
It urged citizens not to be misled by unverified information circulating on social media and advised them to rely only on official sources for accurate information.
The clarification comes amid rising global crude oil prices, which had triggered speculation online about a possible revision in domestic fuel rates after voting concludes.
The government said oil marketing companies have kept retail prices steady despite fluctuations in crude prices, absorbing volatility as part of broader efforts to shield consumers from inflationary pressures.
Dismissing rumours of an imminent hike, the ministry reiterated that there has been no revision in rates and that existing fuel prices continue to remain in force across the country.
The government has repeatedly highlighted its commitment to maintaining affordability of essential fuels, particularly at a time of uncertainty in global energy markets. The latest clarification, it said, was aimed at countering misinformation that had gained traction online.