Crucial time

The ongoing Iran war has already caused lots of hardship to every Indian, especially the middle-class common man. No doubt, there is acute shortage of fuel and gas. But that doesn't give a licence for the petrol and LPG stations to hike the fare by Rs20 per litre. This is nothing short of a vulture's act. Incidentally, we have come across news that one of the leaders of a political party in Uttar Pradesh has hoarded 40 gas cylinders in his residence, which is a real shocker and condemnable act.

We expect our leaders to help the needy and not snatch our rights. Hope the states and Central Government would be more vigilant and take immediate action against such hoarders and those fleecing petrol stations. The government could also think about rationing the supply of fuel, say to a maximum of 5 litres for two-wheelers and 10 for cars per day. The State Government should take steps to annul the fears of shortage of fuels and panic purchases. Incidentally, the political leaders and executives of banks and other Institutions should avoid using cars for their use and come out with a pooling system among themselves to save petrol and gas. If there is a will, there is a way!

Capt. N. Viswanathan,
Coimbatore, India