Congress Protests Rising Inflation During Assam Assembly Session
Protests Erupt in Assam Legislative Assembly
Congress staging protest against inflation after walkout from the second day session of Assam Legislative Assembly (Photo: PTI)
Guwahati, May 22: The second day of the four-day session of the Assam Legislative Assembly was marked by significant disruptions as Congress members protested and exited the House in response to escalating fuel prices and inflation during Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya’s address.
As the Governor commenced his speech, opposition MLAs interrupted, claiming the government had neglected the economic difficulties faced by the populace.
“I commend the citizens, the Election Commission, state administration, and security forces for the peaceful conduct of the Assam Assembly Elections 2026. Since 2014, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the National Democratic Alliance has received unwavering support from the people,” the Governor stated before the protests escalated.
Congress legislators shouted slogans within the Assembly, criticizing the address for failing to address pressing public issues like fuel price hikes, inflation, and LPG shortages. Subsequently, they walked out and continued their demonstration outside the Assembly with placards and anti-government chants.
Initially, two Raijor Dal MLAs, led by Akhil Gogoi, remained in the House and continued to voice their concerns even as the Governor spoke. After approximately 30 minutes, they too exited after submitting a document outlining their points.
Post-walkout, Naoboicha MLA Joy Prakash Das expressed disappointment, stating that the opposition had anticipated the Governor’s speech would tackle the deteriorating economic conditions rather than merely highlight government achievements.
“We urged the Governor to clarify what actions the government has taken to combat rising prices and ensure economic stability. Instead, the speech was a mere endorsement of the government. Our concerns were disregarded, prompting our walkout,” Das remarked.
Das criticized both the central and state governments, asserting that they had failed to manage inflation and were out of touch with the hardships faced by everyday citizens.
“This government has not succeeded in controlling prices. Have you ever heard a Prime Minister suggest that people should reduce their vehicle usage? It feels as though we are approaching a lockdown-like scenario. Ordinary people are struggling to afford food and fuel. The promises made before the elections starkly contrast with the current reality,” he added.
First-time Congress MLA from Algapur-Katlichera, Zubair Anam, also condemned the Governor’s address for neglecting to mention LPG shortages and the rising cost of living.
“Inflation is the most pressing issue today. People are queuing for LPG cylinders but still not receiving them. Yet, the Governor failed to address this concern. As a form of protest, we walked out,” Anam stated.
In response, the BJP dismissed the opposition's claims, asserting that both the central and state governments were equipped to handle the situation.
BJP MLA Jitu Goswami remarked that there was no need for the opposition to panic over rising prices.
“The country has a Prime Minister and the state has a Chief Minister to manage the situation. The issue of rising prices will certainly be addressed,” Goswami asserted.
Another BJP legislator, Ramakanta Deori, linked the price increases to international events, particularly the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
“There is a global rise in prices due to the West Asia conflict. Villagers may not fully grasp the international factors at play, and the impact has not been as severe in rural areas,” Deori explained.
The uproar and subsequent walkout by the opposition set a tumultuous tone for the day’s proceedings, indicating a politically charged session ahead in Assam. The Assam Legislative Assembly was later adjourned until May 25, 2026.