The Indian government has announced strict measures against industrial consumers who are purchasing fuel from retail petrol pumps, a practice that is reportedly harming the financial stability of state-run oil marketing companies (OMCs). The government claims that these practices are costing OMCs approximately ₹550 crore daily. To combat this issue, the government has requested that states and Union Territories (UTs) establish special squads to enforce regulations against bulk consumers and hoarders who divert fuel intended for retail consumers. This diversion not only impacts the availability of fuel for ordinary citizens but also creates local shortages. Additionally, the government has urged industry associations to inform their members about the potential consequences of such violations. The recent hikes in fuel prices, totaling nearly ₹7.5 per litre in a span of two weeks, have been attributed to rising crude oil costs, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, including the ongoing conflict affecting key oil supply routes.