Overiew

New Delhi, October 22, 2025: The Congress party has strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi over reports that the government allegedly gave assurances to certain foreign countries regarding oil imports. The opposition accused the Centre of compromising India’s energy independence and failing to maintain transparency in key trade decisions.

What Sparked the Controversy

According to recent media reports, government officials had discussed long-term oil supply assurances with a few international partners. Congress leaders claimed these commitments were made without proper parliamentary discussion or public disclosure.

Speaking at a press conference, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said, “The government must explain whether any secret agreements or assurances have been made that could affect India’s energy pricing or supply decisions in the future.”

He added that such actions, if true, would raise questions about how India’s strategic interests are being managed and whether domestic consumers could face higher fuel prices in the coming months.

Congress Demands Transparency

The Congress party demanded that the Prime Minister’s Office release all relevant details of any oil import understanding, including terms of pricing, duration, and partner countries involved. Party leaders said India’s energy policy should always be guided by public interest and national security — not by private or political considerations.

Former petroleum ministers and senior Congress leaders also weighed in, reminding the government that India’s long-term energy contracts must always align with domestic needs, not international pressure.

Government’s Response

The central government has not issued an official statement on the specific allegations yet. However, sources in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said that any talks on oil trade are part of normal diplomatic and commercial negotiations.

Officials clarified that India routinely discusses energy cooperation with multiple countries to ensure a stable supply and that no formal agreement compromising national interest has been signed.

Experts Weigh In

Energy analysts noted that India, being one of the world’s largest oil importers, frequently engages in complex negotiations to secure fuel supplies at competitive prices. Experts believe that such diplomatic talks are common, but they agree that clear communication from the government can prevent misunderstandings and speculation.

They also emphasized that maintaining energy security and price stability is crucial at a time when global crude oil prices are fluctuating due to geopolitical tensions.

What Lies Ahead

Congress has announced that it will raise the issue in Parliament and demand a detailed clarification from the government. Meanwhile, citizens and market observers are watching closely, as any change in import policy could affect domestic fuel prices in the coming months.

For now, the debate continues — with the opposition pressing for answers and the government maintaining that all actions are within the framework of India’s national and economic interests.