Price Hike Politics: Fueling Public Discontent

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the Modi government over rising fuel costs, questioning the lack of public relief despite cheaper crude oil prices. Kharge highlighted the increased burden on citizens from high petrol and diesel prices, accusing the government of profiteering at the expense of the common man.

On Tuesday, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge launched a sharp critique against the Modi government concerning escalating fuel prices, questioning why there has been no alleviation for consumers as international crude oil rates have declined over the past 12 years.

Kharge referenced official data, noting that on May 26, 2014, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi took office, crude oil in the Indian basket was priced at USD 108.05 per barrel, with a Dollar-Rupee exchange rate of Rs 58.59. At that time, petrol cost Rs 71.51 per litre and diesel Rs 56.71 per litre.

Currently, despite crude oil dropping below USD 99 per barrel, petrol and diesel prices have surged to Rs 102.12 and Rs 95.20 per litre, respectively. Kharge argued this discrepancy illustrates profiteering and raises serious questions about who benefits from these ongoing hikes, branding the situation as a continuous 'daily robbery' impacting all economic sectors.