Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday expressed strong displeasure over long queues at fuel stations, warning people against panic-driven crowding and warning strict action if the situation continues.
Responding to questions about the rush outside petrol pumps, Abdullah said, “My earnest request is that you stop camping outside petrol pumps otherwise I will shut all the petrol pumps for the next few days.”
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He termed the situation “regrettable,” noting that people were ignoring official assurances while believing rumours. “It’s regrettable that when the government speaks, no one listens, but everyone believes the rumours,” he said.
The Chief Minister clarified that a recent review meeting had confirmed there is no shortage of essential fuels. “It was duly decided that there is currently no shortage of anything, be it diesel, petrol, or LPG cylinders, and even after a couple of days, the situation hasn’t changed,” he added.
Abdullah also stressed that no directive has been issued to limit fuel usage and urged citizens not to rely on unverified social media claims. “Nowhere has there been any directive to reduce usage. I appeal to those people who are lining up based on social media rumours: please don’t do that,” he said.
He further informed that he would be attending an online meeting of all Chief Ministers with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled for the next day.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will speak to Chief Ministers of states and Union Territories via video conference at 6.30 pm tomorrow to review the evolving situation in West Asia and assess its implications for India, especially those concerning liquefied petroleum gas and oil supplies. The meeting will focus on preparedness measures, including supply chains, energy security, and the safety of Indian citizens abroad.
– Ends
Published By:
Akshat Trivedi
Published On:
Mar 26, 2026 19:02 IST
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