Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday raised concerns over the Centre’s reluctance to allow a discussion on the rising LPG crisis, questioning why the government was avoiding a debate on an issue affecting households across the country.Addressing the House, Kharge said the government appeared “selective” in allowing discussions, choosing to take up matters at its convenience while sidestepping pressing concerns. He pointed out that despite writing twice to seek a short-duration discussion under Rule 176 on LPG prices, no time had been allocated for the issue.He also responded to criticism from treasury benches over his absence at the all-party meeting on the Middle East situation, countering that the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, was himself not present at the meeting. Kharge further said he had deputed representatives, questioning the grounds on which his absence was being raised.“There has been a global surge in prices of essential commodities, including LPG, which is also impacting India. Yet, the government is unwilling to facilitate a structured discussion in Parliament,” the Congress chief said.Kharge further alleged that opposition inputs were being disregarded, with legislative business being pushed through without adequate deliberation. He questioned the frequent use of voice votes to clear Bills, asking whether such practices aligned with democratic principles.Stating that he had expected a more balanced approach under the new Chairman, Kharge said the argument of lack of time could not justify the exclusion of critical public issues from parliamentary debate. He maintained that matters affecting citizens directly must be given priority and sufficient time for discussion in the House.