Erroneous LPG Subsidy SMS Causes Confusion Among Mangaluru Residents

Public sector oil marketing companies (OMCs) in India inadvertently caused widespread confusion in Mangaluru by sending automated SMS alerts to domestic LPG consumers. The messages, dispatched in English, Kannada, and Hindi, warned recipients that their subsidies would be discontinued because their gross taxable income exceeded the prescribed limit of ₹10 lakh. This notification created significant distress among residents who had voluntarily opted out of the LPG subsidy scheme under the 'Give It Up' campaign nearly a decade ago. When affected customers attempted to clarify the situation, they faced difficulties reaching local gas agencies. Although a toll-free customer service representative later confirmed that the message was a generic broadcast sent to all HP Gas consumers regardless of their subsidy status, the initial lack of clarity prompted complaints. Affected individuals, including users of HPCL and Indane services, registered grievances with the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry via the Central Grievances Redressal and Monitoring System. In response to the public outcry, D. Nagaraj, the Deputy Director of Food and Civil Supplies, announced plans to address the issue directly with HP Gas officials to prevent future misinformation and alleviate consumer concerns regarding potential financial penalties.