Opposition leaders have sharply criticized the central government after a massive hike in commercial LPG cylinder prices. On May 1, 2026, the price of a commercial LPG cylinder was increased by ₹993 in a single day, marking the largest one-day price rise. Since February, the cumulative increase has reached ₹1,380, translating to an 81% surge in just three months.
Impact on Small Businesses and Consumers
The steep price rise is expected to burden small eateries, including tea stalls, dhabas, hotels, bakeries, and sweet shops. These businesses rely heavily on commercial LPG for cooking, and the increased costs are likely to be passed on to consumers. Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, stated on social media: "I had said that after the elections, the heat of inflation would come. Today, commercial gas cylinder is ₹993 more expensive. This is the election bill. From February till now: ₹1,380 increase - an 81% rise in just three months. Tea seller, dhaba, hotel, bakery, halwai - everyone's kitchen has been burdened."
Political Reactions
Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal also condemned the move, saying: "Just as the election cycle concluded, the Modi government wasted no time to increase prices of LPG cylinders. A whopping increase of nearly ₹1000 on commercial cylinders will affect crores of Indians who rely on food from small eateries for sustenance." The price hike has reignited debates over inflation and the government's economic policies, with opposition parties demanding immediate rollback and relief measures for the common man.
