On 27-04-2026, a complaint was filed before the National Human Rights Commission regarding the present fuel crisis in Andhra Pradesh, which is alleged to have severely impacted multiple districts, including Vijaywada, Kakinada, NTR District, Guntur, Palnadu, Tirupati, Kadapa, and Kurnool, as citizens either wait for hours or are turned away without fuel.
The complaint was based on the administrative failure of the State authorities to address a severe petrol and diesel shortage across Andhra Pradesh, which has led to large-scale disruption of normal life. The complainant relied upon certain reports dated 26-04-2026, which stated that 10% of fuel stations had shut down due to a lack of supply, while others were operating under severe restrictions, resulting in long queues, rationing, and denial of access.
The complainant alleged that farmers, transport operators, daily wage earners, and emergency service providers were among the worst affected, and that the situation had been aggravated by panic buying, the absence of effective regulation, and the failure of authorities to implement corrective measures.
It was mentioned that, as fuel is indispensable for mobility, healthcare, agriculture, etc., it falls within the ambit of essential services necessary for a dignified life, and that the present scenario violates Article 21 of the Constitution. The complainant also alleged a violation of Article 19(1)(d) because the severe fuel shortage and rationing have effectively curtailed citizens’ freedom of movement.
The complainant alleged that the Chief Minister’s Office, Government of Andhra Pradesh, the Chief Secretary, Government of Andhra Pradesh, the Principal Secretary, Civil Supplies Department, the Commissioner, Civil Supplies Department, and the District Collectors of all affected districts had miserably failed to anticipate and mitigate the crisis despite clear warning signs. It was also stated that a lack of coordination with oil companies and the absence of emergency response mechanisms had exacerbated the situation.
The complainant prayed the NHRC to take cognizance of the matter and to issue notices to all respondents, seeking Status Reports as well as Action Taken Reports from them. A prayer was also made to declare that the denial of access to the essential fuel supply violates the fundamental rights of the citizens, and to direct the State Government to ensure the immediate restoration and equitable distribution of fuel across all districts. The complainant sought an independent inquiry, along with a direction to formulate a robust mechanism for essential supplies. Additionally, the complainant sought compensation for the affected persons.
Appearances:
Complainant – Adv. Y. Balachander Reddy
National Human Rights Commission Click here