LPG Connection Freeze, KYC Delays Leave Indian Consumers in Limbo

Liquefied petroleum gas consumers across India are facing mounting frustration as Indane, a major LPG distributor, has halted new connection registrations since April, citing incomplete know-your-customer (KYC) verification requirements. According to statements from official Indane service centers, the suspension has left potential customers without access to cooking gas while the company mandates electronic KYC (eKYC) authentication for both new and existing account holders. The digital verification requirement has created a bottleneck in service delivery, with consumers reporting that many cannot complete the eKYC process through the mobile application. Those unable to authenticate digitally are being directed to visit gas agency offices in person to complete verification procedures. The situation has sparked criticism over the implementation of digital verification systems, particularly affecting consumers in remote areas or those with limited digital literacy. Customers with existing connections seeking cylinder deliveries are being denied service until their eKYC status is updated, creating logistical challenges for families dependent on LPG for cooking. The directive has raised questions about the practical application of India's digital infrastructure initiatives when consumers lack convenient access to verification centers or stable internet connectivity. Indane has not publicly announced a timeline for resuming new connections or alternative verification methods for those unable to access online authentication systems.