ONGC Silent on Assam’s Shale Gas Potential; RTI Queries Allegedly Ignored

Itanagar, India Jul 12, 2026 ALN: A CORRESPONDENT

NAZIRA: The vast potential of shale gas reserves in Assam and the Northeast continues to remain shrouded in mystery, with allegations emerging that Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has maintained a conspicuous silence on the issue and failed to respond to Right to Information (RTI) queries.

Shale gas, considered a significant unconventional energy resource globally, is known for being relatively environmentally friendly compared to traditional fossil fuels. While conventional oil and gas extraction contributes significantly to air pollution and global warming, shale gas—trapped within sedimentary rock layers underground—offers a cleaner alternative despite higher extraction costs. This characteristic has made shale gas an attractive option for countries seeking to transition to cleaner energy sources, especially in light of increasing global concerns about climate change and reliance on carbon-intensive fossil fuels.

In India, surveys conducted by national and international agencies have indicated the presence of shale gas reserves in regions such as the Gangetic basin, Assam, Gujarat, and various offshore areas. On January 5, 2013, then Union Petroleum Minister M Veerappa Moily announced plans for shale gas exploration in Assam. This announcement was part of a broader national strategy to tap into unconventional energy resources, which included not only shale gas but also coal bed methane and tight gas. Subsequently, both ONGC and Oil India Limited identified potential sites in Lakwa, Banamali, Namti, Dibrugarh, Chabua, and Doomdooma, sparking hopes for economic development and energy security in the region.

However, more than a decade later, there has been little to no public disclosure regarding the progress or findings of these explorations. This lack of transparency has raised concerns among local communities, environmental activists, and stakeholders who are eager to understand the implications of shale gas extraction on both the environment and local economies. In 2017, ONGC reportedly halted shale gas exploration citing technical challenges, but the specifics of these challenges have not been made public, leading to speculation about the viability of shale gas extraction in the region.

Concerns persist that crucial information is being deliberately withheld. The RTI Act was enacted in India in 2005 to promote transparency and accountability in governance, allowing citizens to request information from public authorities. Attempts to obtain clarity through RTI applications submitted to the ONGC chairman, as well as communications with the public relations offices at its Nazira-based Assam Asset headquarters and the Jorhat Basin, have reportedly yielded no response, deepening suspicions around the issue. This silence from ONGC is particularly concerning given the strategic importance of energy resources in India's economic development and energy independence.

Adding to the controversy, the Government of India had granted permission to private sector company Essar to undertake shale gas exploration, which raises questions about why a Maharatna public sector enterprise like ONGC has been unable—or unwilling—to proceed similarly. The disparity in treatment between public and private entities in the energy sector is a point of contention, especially when public resources are involved. Critics argue that this situation reflects broader issues of governance and accountability within state-owned enterprises.

Despite widespread media coverage in regional newspapers, ONGC's Assam Asset office in Nazira has remained largely unresponsive. Critics allege that the organisation continues to rely on selectively issued press statements while avoiding direct engagement with local journalists, even ignoring RTI obligations. This lack of engagement raises concerns about the commitment of ONGC to transparency and community relations, which are crucial for sustainable development in resource-rich regions.

Moreover, the implications of shale gas exploration extend beyond economic considerations. Environmental concerns are paramount, particularly in a region like Assam, which is known for its rich biodiversity and fragile ecosystems. The potential impacts of shale gas extraction, including water contamination, land degradation, and seismic activities, need to be carefully assessed. Local communities, who often bear the brunt of environmental degradation, have a right to be informed and consulted about such projects. The absence of dialogue between ONGC and local stakeholders only exacerbates tensions and mistrust.

In light of these developments, the need for a comprehensive policy framework governing shale gas exploration in India becomes increasingly urgent. This framework should not only address technical and economic aspects but also incorporate environmental safeguards and community engagement strategies. It is essential for the government and ONGC to foster a culture of transparency and accountability, ensuring that the benefits of resource extraction are equitably shared while minimizing adverse impacts on the environment and local communities.

The ongoing silence of ONGC regarding the potential of shale gas in Assam raises fundamental questions about the future of energy policy in India. As the country seeks to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability, the management of unconventional energy resources like shale gas will play a critical role. Stakeholders, including government agencies, public sector companies, private firms, and civil society, must work collaboratively to ensure that India’s energy transition is both economically viable and environmentally responsible.

In conclusion, the situation surrounding ONGC's shale gas exploration in Assam highlights the complexities of energy resource management in a rapidly changing world. As the demand for cleaner energy sources continues to grow, the potential of shale gas must be explored with due diligence, transparency, and respect for local communities and ecosystems. The call for accountability and responsiveness from ONGC is not just a matter of regulatory compliance; it is a crucial step towards building trust and ensuring sustainable development in the region.

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