Bathinda, March 18: LPG distributors in Bathinda have approached the district administration seeking protection following a series of reports involving the physical assault of delivery personnel. A delegation representing the dealers met with Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Dhiman to report that workers are being “beaten up” by consumers frustrated by the current shortage of cooking gas. The dealers affirmed that the safety of their staff has reached a critical point, making it difficult to maintain regular operations.
The delegation maintained that delivery workers are facing the brunt of public anger, especially in villages where supply delays have been most acute. Bhushan Garg, representing the dealers, declared that one recent incident involved a worker being restrained by angry villagers. He asserted that the staff is under immense pressure, working double shifts to bridge the supply gap, yet they continue to face hostility from those demanding cylinders outside of the official booking queue.
Dealers declared that the aggression is often fueled by individuals who have not booked their cylinders but insist on immediate fulfillment. They maintained that the constant threat of violence is causing a labor shortage, as workers are now afraid to venture into certain areas. The delegation asserted that without immediate administrative support and police protection, the distribution network could face a complete breakdown.
In response to the concerns, District Food and Civil Supplies Controller Daljit Singh Sandhu affirmed that instructions have been issued to dealers to ensure equitable distribution across the district. He stated that the administration is working to resolve the supply bottlenecks while ensuring that the situation remains under control. The official maintained that while efforts to stabilize the gas supply are ongoing, dealers must continue to reach all designated areas to alleviate public anxiety.
