Congress Criticizes Government Over Rising Fuel Prices and Unemployment
Congress leaders have voiced strong concerns over the continuous rise in fuel prices and the escalating unemployment crisis in India. K.C. Venugopal and Sachin Pilot have criticized the government for its inaction, claiming that the public is suffering due to soaring costs and lack of job opportunities. They warn of potential social unrest as citizens face increasing hardships. With petrol prices in Delhi surpassing 100 rupees per liter, the situation is becoming dire for consumers and transport operators alike. This article delves into the political implications and the recent trends in fuel pricing amidst global market instability.
| May 25, 2026, 16:58 IST
Concerns Over Fuel Price Hikes
Expressing serious concerns regarding the ongoing rise in fuel prices, Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal launched a sharp critique against the central government on Monday. He accused the administration of being inactive while the public grapples with soaring prices and a crisis of unemployment. Speaking to reporters, Venugopal stated that the government is doing nothing to address these issues, remaining completely passive while the Prime Minister is on a global tour. Fuel prices for petrol and diesel are increasing daily, causing significant hardships for the people. Unemployment is at an all-time high, leaving our youth without job opportunities. He warned of potential social unrest, noting that the public is already distressed and a natural movement is likely to occur.
Political Strategy Under Scrutiny
Echoing these concerns, Sachin Pilot accused the government of employing a calculated political strategy. He emphasized that the government was aware of international factors affecting fuel prices during the election period but chose to conceal the truth. Pilot told reporters that the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict has been prolonged, and even during elections in five states, the government failed to inform the public about the situation. Now, as results are in, we are witnessing daily increases in fuel prices. He further alleged that the central government has manipulated prices to align with its political agenda. Pilot remarked that if the intention was to burden the common man, the government should have been transparent from the start; what issues would arise during elections? They said nothing then but now wish to impose this burden on the public. The government is not controlling inflation at all, and it appears their only agenda is to win elections, harass the opposition, and tarnish its reputation.
Recent Fuel Price Increases
Amid ongoing instability in global crude oil markets and geopolitical tensions in West Asia, fuel prices have once again risen today, marking the fourth increase in less than two weeks.
In Delhi, petrol prices have crossed 100 rupees, rising by 2.61 rupees to reach 102.12 rupees per liter, while diesel prices increased by 2.71 rupees to 95.20 rupees per liter.
Similar increases have been observed in major metropolitan areas such as Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai, further burdening consumers and transport operators.