Political Turmoil Erupts Over Fuel Price Hike in India

Fuel Price Increase Sparks Political Outrage

The recent hike of ₹3 per liter in petrol and diesel prices has ignited significant political unrest across the nation. The Congress party has launched a fierce critique against the Modi government regarding this decision. They argue that this increase will not only burden the common citizen but also negatively impact the country's GDP growth rate.

Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh stated that while international crude oil prices were low, the Modi administration failed to provide relief to consumers, instead exploiting them. On Friday, government oil companies adjusted fuel prices for the first time in four years, raising both petrol and diesel by ₹3 per liter.

Current Fuel Prices in Delhi

According to sources, the price of petrol in the national capital has surged from ₹94.77 per liter to ₹97.77 per liter. Ramesh took to social media platform 'X' to express, "For years, when international oil prices were low or declining, the Indian National Congress consistently demanded that the benefits be passed on to Indian consumers, advocating for reductions in domestic prices of gas, petrol, and diesel. However, this did not happen, and consumers were exploited instead."

Impact of Global Events on Fuel Prices

He further noted that with rising international oil prices due to conflicts instigated by close allies of the Prime Minister in the Middle East, and with assembly elections now concluded, the Modi government has increased prices after previously raising commercial LPG rates. Ramesh claimed that this will inevitably lead to higher inflation, which is projected to reach around six percent this fiscal year. He also mentioned that growth rate forecasts are likely to be significantly lowered.