New Delhi, 25 May (H.S.): Following four increases in petroleum product prices in less than a month, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convenor Arvind Kejriwal have strongly criticized the Central Government, questioning its handling of rising inflation and fuel costs.

Both leaders stated that the continuous rise in prices has made life increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens, alleging that the government lacks any concrete measures to control inflation.

Speaking to reporters, Kharge alleged that the government has no vision and is not serious about addressing the concerns of the poor and youth. He said that even during the UPA government, when global crude oil prices had surged significantly, subsidies were provided to offer relief to the public. However, he claimed that the present government is only making incremental increases—sometimes 90 paise, sometimes one rupee, and sometimes two rupees—indicating its inability to manage the economy.

He further stated that unemployment and inflation have severely affected the public, with essential daily commodities becoming increasingly expensive, including milk, vegetables, clothing, books, and children’s education fees. Kharge also alleged that the government is selling public sector enterprises to its “friends” and eliminating employment opportunities.

According to him, the public is facing a dual burden of unemployment and inflation. He added that the government has no clear policy direction and criticized the Prime Minister for allegedly lacking an understanding of how to manage the economy. He further claimed that during the UPA regime, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had successfully managed the economy despite global crises, whereas the current government is allegedly benefiting the wealthy while making the poor poorer.

Meanwhile, AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal, in a video message posted on X, said that the Centre had again increased petrol and diesel prices by an average of ₹2.50 per litre each. He noted that this was the fourth hike in recent days, with overall prices rising by up to ₹8 so far.

He questioned why the government is not purchasing oil and gas from Russia and Iran, claiming that both countries are willing to supply India at cheaper rates in sufficient quantities. Kejriwal added that he had recently asked citizens whether India should buy oil and gas from Russia and Iran, claiming that around 97% supported the idea.

He further said that 140 crore Indians are continuously bearing the burden of inflation, while the government has no satisfactory answers. According to him, when cheaper alternatives are available, the government should take immediate steps to provide relief to the public.

It is noteworthy that petrol, diesel, CNG, and LPG prices have been increased four times in the past month. On May 25, petrol in Delhi reached ₹102.12 per litre and diesel ₹95.20 per litre. Earlier, on May 23, petrol was increased by 87 paise per litre and diesel by 91 paise per litre. On May 18, both petrol and diesel prices were raised by around 90 paise per litre, while CNG became costlier by ₹1 per kilogram. On May 15, petrol and diesel prices were increased by ₹3 per litre each, and CNG by ₹2 per kilogram. Earlier, on May 1, the price of commercial LPG cylinders was increased by ₹993, taking the price in Delhi to ₹3,071.50.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar