Karnataka CM Tussle and LPG Price Surge: A Double Dilemma for Congress

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi highlights internal confusion in the Congress over Karnataka's Chief Ministerial post, amid mounting allegations of corruption. Meanwhile, India's commercial LPG cylinder prices witness a steep hike, impacting the food and hospitality industry, though domestic prices remain stable despite increased international dependency.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi expressed concerns on Saturday about the ongoing discord within the Indian National Congress regarding the Chief Minister position in Karnataka. He alleged that the party is deliberating over appointing DK Shivakumar as the new CM, while criticizing the current administration for shortcomings in law and order and rampant corruption.

The internal strife comes as Congress faces a leadership-sharing crisis, particularly with supporters of CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar at odds. Calls have intensified for Shivakumar to take on the Chief Minister role, supported by claims of a supposed 2023 'power-sharing agreement' within the party.

In another development, businesses in the food and hospitality sector are hit by a steep increase in the price of commercial LPG cylinders, effective immediately. The cost of a 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder in Delhi has shot up to Rs 3,071.50, while domestic LPG prices remain unchanged for around 33 crore households, amidst global import dependencies.