Guwahati: The All Assam Students' Union (Aasu) has launched a blistering attack on both the central and state governments over the sharp rise in prices of essential commodities soon after the elections, warning of massive statewide agitations if immediate relief is not provided to the public.
In a joint statement issued on Saturday, Aasu president Utpal Sarma and general secretary Samiran Phukan condemned what they termed the "pathetic failure" and total indifference of the authorities in curbing inflation. The student leaders said the unchecked price rise has crossed all limits, dealing a devastating blow to common citizens while alleging that the government remains idle.
"Inflation has severely distressed public life. Prices of essential commodities are skyrocketing, setting the market on fire. The continuous depreciation of the Indian rupee against the US dollar persists. The government has miserably failed to provide relief to the people from this ongoing distress," they said.
The union alleged that the government's silence reflects its indifference to the plight of citizens, warning that if inflation is not controlled and prices are not reduced, the administration must prepare to face intense public protests.
In Assam, Aasu pointed out, prices of rice, pulses, mustard oil, and milk — along with other essentials — have surged sharply in recent days. Rising medicine costs have added to the burden on patients and families, while commercial LPG cylinder prices have crossed Rs 3,000, pushing small hotels, restaurants, and tea stalls to the brink of closure. Hostels in educational institutions are also facing critical shortages.
"Amid these conditions, the rising prices of petrol and diesel have added fuel to the fire. As soon as elections in five states concluded, the pace of price hikes accelerated," they alleged.
Aasu further noted that the rupee's value against the dollar has dropped to an all-time low, raising serious questions about the country's economic health despite the Prime Minister's calls for austerity.
"The students' union firmly asserts that the extremity of price hikes has crossed all limits. The public desperately needs relief. The government must curb inflation, reduce prices, and provide immediate respite to citizens. Otherwise, the people of Assam and the students' union will be forced to take to the streets," the statement warned.
