IOCL Moves Madras High Court against LPG Transport Strike; Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), through their counsel V. ANANTHA NATARAJAN, has filed a writ petition before the Madras High Court seeking immediate action to end an indefinite strike launched by the Southern Region Bulk LPG Transport Owners’

by Sekar Reporter · Published October 10, 2025 · Updated October 10, 2025

[10/10, 21:36] Sekarreporter: IOCL Moves Madras High Court against LPG Transport Strike;
Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), through their counsel V. ANANTHA NATARAJAN, has filed a writ petition before the Madras High Court seeking immediate action to end an indefinite strike launched by the Southern Region Bulk LPG Transport Owners’ Association from 10 October 2025.
The association has raised demands relating to:
• Withdrawal of LOIs under the discontinued SUIS scheme,
• Reassessment of truck requirements,
• Issues with SC/ST participation and ATS clause,
• Alleged delays in payment of transportation and toll charges.
IOCL has countered these claims, stating:
• LOIs were issued lawfully as per tender terms,
• Logistics planning was based on data and demand forecasts,
• Payments are processed except where documents or conditions are pending,
• The ATS clause was introduced at the association’s request.
IOCL plea that the strike is illegal, violates contractual obligations, disrupts the essential LPG supply chain, and poses a serious public interest concern. The corporation highlights risks such as:
• Bottling delays at plants,
• Ullage and containment issues at refineries and import terminals,
• Disruption of ship discharge operations,
• Financial losses running into crores,
• Impact on over 22 crore domestic consumers.
The petition seeks:
1. A Writ of Mandamus directing State authorities to invoke powers under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 and other laws to ensure uninterrupted LPG supply across Tamil Nadu.

2. An interim injunction restraining the 3rd and 4th respondents from continuing the strike and directing them to deploy their tankers as per contract.
IOCL asserts that the transporters have not raised any grievance against the existing contract and cannot use strike tactics to influence a new tender. The petition also stresses the duty of the State to prevent disruption of essential commodities.
[10/10, 21:36] Sekarreporter: 👍👍