Gaurav Gogoi Advocates for Economic Reforms Amid Rising Inflation in Assam
Call for Economic Policy Changes
APCC Chief and Jorhat MP at Jorhat's Dhekiakhowa Bor Namghar on Monday (Photo: AT)
Jorhat, June 1: Gaurav Gogoi, the president of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), emphasized the need for a fresh economic vision and policy reforms to alleviate the financial strain caused by inflation on everyday citizens. He argued that the central government's policies should focus on supporting the middle class and marginalized communities.
Speaking to reporters at Dhekiakhowa Bor Namghar, where he attended prayers for Mahapurush Madhabdev's tithi, Gogoi expressed concern over the escalating prices that have led many families into financial distress, labeling the situation as an "economic crisis." He noted that people throughout Assam and the nation are grappling with the pressures of inflation and increasing living expenses.
"While the middle class and impoverished groups should be receiving assistance, the affluent continue to amass wealth," he remarked.
He also pointed out the growing financial challenges faced by students, highlighting that the costs of higher education are becoming increasingly prohibitive due to rising fees.
"Currently, we are focused on the surge in fuel prices and essential goods, but there has also been a significant increase in school fees, hostel charges, and healthcare costs. The youth have been compelled to protest against soaring hostel fees, particularly in higher education," he stated.
Gogoi called for a comprehensive policy overhaul, asserting that economic reforms should be developed through expert advice and enhanced public accountability.
"There is an urgent need for reforms and a new economic strategy. Policies should prioritize the middle class and disadvantaged groups rather than catering to wealthy contractors, corporations, and capitalists," he added, urging the government to heed constructive criticism and recognize the struggles of ordinary citizens.
Regarding the cessation of subsidized pulses and sugar distribution for ration card holders, Gogoi criticized the ruling party for not fulfilling the promises made during the Assembly election campaign.
"It is regrettable that the public was not informed about this change prior to the elections. The ruling party's campaign led people to believe that these supplies would continue, which ultimately turned out to be an empty political promise," he remarked.
On the topic of recent arrests of government officials linked to corruption, Gogoi suggested that bureaucratic corruption often thrives with political support, allowing the true beneficiaries to evade accountability.
"No government official can act without political protection. Those political entities that supported these officials also profited personally, and now that they no longer require them, the officials are being sacrificed for arrest," he alleged.
He further asserted that while officials are subjected to investigations and arrests, those who provided political cover remain unscathed.
"Government officials are facing scrutiny and arrests, yet those who offered them political protection remain safe. If this political reality persists, Assam will lag in terms of progress and development," Gogoi concluded.