Mysuru: CPM activists held a protest near Gandhi Square in the city on Wednesday against the Union government's decision to hike petrol, diesel, and CNG prices twice in the last week. The protesters shouted slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of implementing anti-people and anti-labour policies. They pointed out that the price hikes came shortly after assembly elections concluded in five states.
Allegations Against Prime Minister Modi
The protesters claimed that the Prime Minister is burdening the common man by increasing fuel prices under the pretext of the West-Asia conflict. They also accused him of emotionally blackmailing people by advising austerity measures, such as postponing the purchase of gold and minimizing fuel use. The CPM activists criticized PM Modi for his foreign trips following these austerity recommendations, asserting that such actions contradict his advice.
Criticism of BJP Leaders
The protesters further alleged that the Prime Minister, along with BJP-ruled chief ministers and ministers, is hoodwinking the public by using electric vehicles. They argued that such dramatics do not alleviate the burden on the common man or resolve the fuel crisis. The CPM demanded that the government take concrete steps to control fuel prices rather than resorting to symbolic gestures.
Demand to Disband National Testing Agency
In addition to the fuel price hike, the protesters urged the government to disband the National Testing Agency (NTA) over its alleged mismanagement of NEET exams. They claimed that the NTA's actions have resulted in the deaths of dozens of students and disrupted over 24 lakh candidates due to reported paper leaks. The CPM activists called for accountability and a thorough investigation into the matter.
Protest Leaders
The protest was led by the party district committee secretary Jagadeesh Surya, along with district committee members M Vijaykumar and others. The demonstration remained peaceful, with participants holding placards and raising slogans against the government's policies.
