LPG Cylinder Prices Set to Shift from November 1: Will Gas Become More Affordable or Costlier During the Election Period?

New Delhi : In a significant development, the prices of LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) cylinders are set to witness revisions on November 1, 2023, coinciding with the assembly elections scheduled to take place in five Indian states. This announcement has ignited curiosity among the populace, as it begs the question of whether the forthcoming changes will make LPG more affordable or expensive.

Approximately two months prior to the assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Mizoram, and Telangana, the Modi government took a noteworthy step. On August 30, 2023, it offered relief to the common man by reducing the cost of domestic LPG cylinders by a substantial Rs 200. As a result, a 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinder in the capital city of Delhi now stands at a reasonable Rs 903.

The government's decision to increase the price of commercial LPG cylinders by Rs 209 on October 1, 2023, was met with mixed reactions. In Delhi, a 19 kg commercial cylinder became more expensive by the same amount, while Kolkata experienced a price hike of Rs 203.50. Consumers in Mumbai were dealt a blow as prices surged by Rs 202, and in Chennai, the rate increased by Rs 203 per cylinder.

As the nation anticipates the approaching state elections, the critical question arises as to whether the price of LPG cylinders will fluctuate between now and the elections. History reveals that during the last assembly elections held in these five states in November-December 2018, LPG cylinder prices underwent three notable adjustments.

Back in 2018, the benchmark price of a domestic LPG cylinder in Delhi rose from Rs 879 to Rs 939 on November 1. Just six days later, on November 7, rates were revised once again, reaching Rs 942.50. Thus, it is evident that LPG cylinders became more expensive during the election period in 2018.

Following the election results on December 11, 2018, the scenario changed considerably. The BJP government faced defeat in Rajasthan, experienced a fractured mandate in Madhya Pradesh, and witnessed a shift in Chhattisgarh with Congress coming to power. Meanwhile, Telangana saw KCR's electoral magic work once more.

However, a welcome development occurred on December 1, 2018, when LPG cylinder prices were updated again. This time, domestic LPG cylinder rates were reduced by Rs 133, offering much-needed relief to the consumers.

Given these historical events, the pressing question remains whether LPG cylinder prices will follow a similar pattern this November. Should there be an increase, consumers are hopeful for relief akin to the scenario experienced five years ago. The election results for all five states are expected to be revealed on December 3, 2023, further intensifying the anticipation surrounding these changes.