In a sensational move, the prime minister's office (PMO) has reportedly directed the petroleum ministry to immediately cancel the allotment of gas from KG (Krishna Godavari) basin to Ratnagiri Power Project in Maharashtra. The sources said the PMO told Kiran Kumar Reddy that the orders, which sanctioned the gas to Maharashtra, were stopped.

It has to be noted that Kiran Kumar Reddy government came under heavy criticism for the allotment of KG basin gas to Maharashtra. Reacting on this petroleum minister Jaipal Reddy pushed the ball in the prime minister's court stating that his role in the issue was minimal. On  the other hand, all political parties in AP apparently geared up for a massive protest over this allotment. The sources said that keeping all these issues in view, the Centre directed petroleum ministry to cancel the allotment of gas to Maharashtra from AP.

(AW Phani)