The Annamayya district police on Thursday warned of strict legal action against individuals who are spreading rumors of shortage of LPG cylinders and price hike on social media platforms while exploiting the Middle East conflict.
The warning followed misleading posts on social media that claimed LPG cylinders were becoming scarcer and that prices had risen sharply due to international developments.
Speaking to the media, Superintendent of Police (SP) Dheeraj Kunubilli said that the supply of LPG cylinders in the entire district is normal and there is no cause for public concern. People have been urged not to panic and not to believe unverified reports circulating on social media. He said that those creating or passing false information about LPG availability will be identified and subjected to strict legal action. Anyone found spreading rumors or trying to create panic among the public will face consequences under the law.
The SP said a special vigil has been put in place on traders or middlemen who were trying to create artificial shortage and selling bottles at exorbitant prices. “Such illegal practices would warrant immediate legal action,” he said, adding that the public should report any cases of overcharging or misinformation to the nearest police station or call 112.
Published – 12 March 2026 19:46 IST
