Haryana Congress Condemns BJP Over Escalating LPG Costs
Haryana Congress president Rao Narender Singh launched a sharp critique against the BJP government on Saturday, highlighting the surging prices of gas cylinders as a critical issue. He emphasized that citizens already struggling with inflation are now confronting a double burden, as the hike in cooking gas prices imposes an unbearable strain on ordinary households.
Broken Promises and Economic Strain
Rao Narender Singh pointed out that the recent increase in LPG prices has further tightened household budgets. He recalled that prior to assuming power, the BJP had pledged to provide gas cylinders at Rs 500, but this scheme has largely been discontinued. A poverty-line criterion was introduced, resulting in even many impoverished families being compelled to purchase cylinders at the regular market price, which has escalated to approximately Rs 950.
He alleged that this decision was influenced by pressure from the United States, which he accused of making undue interference in India's crude oil trade. The government, he asserted, should recognize the public's hardships and the mounting economic pressures they face.
Threat of Mass Agitation
Rao issued a stern warning, stating that if cooking gas prices are not reduced, Haryana Congress will initiate a massive street agitation. The party plans to raise its voice against this perceived injustice, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the people to demand relief.
Women's Concerns Highlighted
Meanwhile, Sudha Bhardwaj, former president of Mahila Congress and a Congress leader, described the LPG rate increase as another rude shock for women in society. She remarked, "All this is happening despite claims that there are sufficient resources in the country. This heightened price will have long-term impacts," underscoring the broader social implications of the price hike.
