New Delhi, March 12, 2026
Tensions boiled over in India’s Lok Sabha on Thursday as Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on the central government, blaming it for the deepening energy crisis triggered by the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict. His remarks, which included explosive references to Jeffrey Epstein and George Soros, ignited fierce protests from treasury benches, forcing the Speaker to intervene.
The session descended into pandemonium when Gandhi, addressing the fallout from the West Asia war, questioned India’s reliance on foreign dictates for oil and gas imports. He highlighted the closure of the Strait of Hormuz—a vital artery carrying about 20% of global oil supplies—as a direct threat to India’s energy security. “Our country’s oil and natural gas largely come through this route,” Gandhi stated, warning of severe repercussions. He pointed to immediate hardships, including LPG shortages hitting street vendors and small traders hardest, with restaurants shuttering and public panic rising.
Gandhi didn’t stop at economics. He pivoted to international pressures, lambasting the U.S. for influencing India’s procurement decisions. “Who is America to tell us from whom we buy oil or gas? Can we buy from Russia or not?” he demanded, criticizing the Modi administration for ceding control over such matters. Referencing former U.S. President Donald Trump’s statements, Gandhi called it “puzzling” that a sovereign nation like India would allow external powers to shape its foreign relations and energy policies.
The real fireworks erupted when Gandhi targeted Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. “I have solved this puzzle, and it’s linked to an agreement,” Gandhi claimed. “The minister himself said he is a friend of Mr. Epstein.” He further alleged possessing documents showing Puri’s daughter received funds from billionaire George Soros. These accusations prompted immediate backlash from government MPs, drowning the House in shouts and disruptions.
Speaker Om Birla quickly stepped in, admonishing Gandhi for straying from his submitted notice. “You must stick to the rules; no one is allowed to speak beyond them,” Birla ruled, as the uproar forced a brief halt in proceedings. Opposition members rallied behind Gandhi, amplifying calls for accountability amid the crisis.
The debate underscores broader anxieties in India, where the Iran-Israel war—escalating with U.S. involvement—has disrupted global supply chains. Analysts note that India’s heavy dependence on Middle Eastern imports exacerbates vulnerabilities, with small businesses bearing the brunt. Gandhi emphasized that “this is just the beginning,” urging a rethink of energy strategies to safeguard national interests.
As the session wrapped, no immediate resolutions emerged, but the exchange has fueled public discourse on energy independence. Government officials have yet to respond formally to the personal allegations, though sources indicate internal reviews may follow. With fuel prices volatile and shortages looming, all eyes remain on New Delhi for policy shifts.
