KTR Condemns Unprecedented LPG Price Hike Burdening Workers

KT Rama Rao criticized the central government's decision to significantly increase commercial LPG cylinder prices, labeling it an extraordinary burden on workers and low-income individuals. The hike, which saw prices rise nearly Rs 1,000, threatens to close restaurants and small businesses, impacting workers' livelihoods.

KT Rama Rao, the working president of the BRS, has called on the central government to immediately roll back the steep hike in commercial LPG cylinder prices, describing it as an unprecedented strain on the poor and working classes. Speaking during the May Day celebrations at Telangana Bhavan, Rao criticized the BJP-led NDA government for increasing prices by nearly Rs 1,000 in a single move, an action he termed as 'unheard of in the country's history.'

Rao emphasized that the hike would disproportionately impact the common man and potentially cripple households already struggling with rising living costs. He noted that workers in hotels, small businesses, and those reliant on self-employment would be the hardest hit by this abrupt increase. State-owned oil companies have raised commercial LPG costs by Rs 993, with the price for 5-kg Free Trade LPG cylinders jumping from Rs 549 to Rs 810.50.

The significant increase has also driven prices in Hyderabad to Rs 3,315 per cylinder, which Rao warned could lead to restaurant and hotel closures, jeopardizing the livelihoods of countless workers. Furthermore, he highlighted the broader economic challenges exacerbated by global tensions and emphasized that this additional burden would further strain the hospitality sector and small businesses already facing difficulties.