In Rajya Sabha

Congress President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge seeks discussion in Rajya Sabha on India’s energy security amid West Asia tensions and safety of Indians in Middle East

New Delhi: Congress President and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Shri Mallikarjun Kharge sought a short-duration discussion in the Rajya Sabha on emerging challenges to India’s energy security.

Raising the issue in the Rajya Sabha on March 9, 2026, Shri Mallikarjun Kharge said that the rapidly evolving geopolitical situation in West Asia is beginning to impact India’s energy security and international credibility. He noted that India meets nearly 55 per cent of its crude oil requirements through imports from West Asia, and any escalation of conflict in the region could directly affect the country’s economic stability.

He also highlighted that around 10 million Indians working in Gulf countries, stating their safety and livelihoods depend on stability in the region.

Referring to recent incidents, he said that some Indian citizens have been killed or reported missing, raising concerns over the security of the diaspora.

The Congress President said that India receives nearly USD 51 billion annually in remittances from Gulf countries, which supports millions of families back home. He cautioned that the developments in the region are already having economic repercussions in India.

Congress President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge pointed out that the price of domestic LPG cylinders has increased by about Rs. 60, while commercial LPG cylinders have gone up by around Rs. 115, adding that the burden is falling on poorer households.

Urging the Chair to allow a discussion, he said that the House should deliberate on the emerging challenges to India’s energy security and their broader economic and social implications.

Later, Congress General Secretary in-charge Communications Jairam Ramesh posted on ‘X’ that the continued refusal of the Modi Govt to have an immediate discussion on the situation in West Asia in the Rajya Sabha has led to the walkout of all Opposition MPs for the entire day.