Thiruvananthpuram, 03 May (H.S.): Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Sunday strongly criticised the sharp increase in cooking gas prices, warning that the move would severely affect ordinary households and small businesses across the country.

In a statement, Vijayan said the price of commercial LPG cylinders had been hiked by nearly ₹993 in a single revision, pushing rates beyond ₹3,000. He cautioned that the increase would deal a major blow to the hotel and restaurant sector, which depends heavily on commercial gas for daily operations, and could lead to closures of small establishments.

The Chief Minister also flagged the rise in the price of 5-kg LPG cylinders—widely used by migrant workers and economically weaker sections—by ₹251.50. He said the hike would disproportionately impact vulnerable groups already struggling with rising living costs.

Vijayan criticised the timing of the price revision, noting that it came immediately after the conclusion of Assembly elections in states including Kerala. He alleged that the increase would push common people, small entrepreneurs and migrant workers into deeper financial distress.

Highlighting the challenges faced by the hospitality sector, he pointed out that the industry has been dealing with supply constraints due to the ongoing West Asia crisis. The latest price hike, he said, would worsen the situation and eventually pass on the burden to consumers through higher food prices.

Accusing the Centre of prioritising corporate interests, Vijayan said the policy approach of oil companies was placing an unfair burden on the public. He urged the Union government to immediately roll back the hike, warning that failure to do so could have far-reaching economic and social consequences.

Calling for urgent intervention, the Chief Minister said protecting the interests of ordinary citizens must remain the top priority.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman