Congress President Criticizes Government Over Fuel Price Hikes

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has launched a strong critique against the BJP-led government over the recent hike in fuel prices, accusing them of exploiting the earnings of the common man. He highlighted the government's failure to pass on benefits from falling international oil prices and compared India's situation with other countries that have provided relief to their citizens during economic crises. Kharge's remarks come at a time when petrol prices have crossed 100 rupees, raising concerns among the public about the government's leadership and accountability.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 23, 2026, 13:52 IST

Congress Leader's Strong Remarks on Fuel Prices

On Saturday, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge sharply criticized the central government led by the BJP for yet another increase in fuel prices, accusing the ruling party of systematically draining the earnings of the common man. In response to the latest price hike, Kharge pointed out that when international crude oil prices fell in the past, the government failed to pass on the benefits to citizens. He reiterated Congress's claim that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is operating under a hidden agenda.

In a post on X, Kharge stated that petrol prices have now crossed 100 rupees. He emphasized that the public's earnings are being siphoned off in installments! Despite imposing a central tax of 1000 crores on petrol and diesel daily, the BJP's greed remains unquenched. When international prices were low, they did not share the benefits with the public—instead, they exploited them mercilessly. When a crisis arose, they jumped straight into elections, only to preach sacrifice afterward.

Kharge countered the administration's claim that fuel prices in India are lower compared to foreign countries by providing a comparative analysis of how international governments have taken steps to protect their citizens from the economic impacts of ongoing conflicts in West Asia. He noted that while war broke out in West Asia and Prime Minister Modi was busy assuring Indians that 'everything is fine,' other countries were providing relief to their citizens.

He listed several examples: 1. Italy reduced fuel excise duties, providing some relief to its citizens. 2. Australia cut excise duties, resulting in petrol prices dropping by nearly 17 rupees per liter. 3. Germany lowered taxes on oil, leading to a decrease in fuel prices by 17-19 rupees per liter. 4. The UK provided families with 100 pounds in oil assistance and reduced taxes on fuel and electricity. 5. Ireland's 250 million euro relief package resulted in petrol prices dropping by approximately 0.15 euros per liter and diesel prices by 0.20 euros per liter.

He concluded by asking Prime Minister Modi, 'Tell us—who benefits from this installment-based looting? Why are you so accommodating? The real crisis in this government is leadership—140 crore Indians have now understood this.' Kharge's comments come amid the recent surge in petrol and diesel prices.