Karnataka Leaders Intensify Criticism of Central Government Over Soaring Inflation
In a sharp escalation of political rhetoric, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala launched a fresh attack on the Central government on Tuesday. They accused the Centre of imposing an unbearable inflationary burden on households, with a new round of price revisions set to take effect from Wednesday, marking the start of the new financial year.
Healthcare Costs Under Fire as Medicine Prices Set to Rise
The leaders highlighted that prices for approximately 900 essential medicines, including critical drugs for diabetes, hypertension, and infections, are scheduled to increase from April 1. They questioned the rationale behind annual price revisions and existing tax policies, arguing that these escalations in healthcare costs would directly and adversely impact patients across the country.
Ujjwala Scheme Labeled a "Firewood Stove Scheme" Amid LPG Price Surge
Targeting the Central government's flagship Ujjwala scheme, Shivakumar derisively termed it a "firewood stove scheme," citing the relentless rise in LPG cylinder prices. He pointed out that domestic cylinder prices have climbed to Rs 913, with shortages in some regions pushing effective costs even higher, undermining the scheme's intended benefits for low-income households.
Broad Inflationary Trends Across Key Sectors
Surjewala and Shivakumar expanded their critique to encompass broader inflationary pressures affecting multiple sectors. They cited significant increases in construction inputs, including:
- Steel and cement, with cement prices expected to rise by Rs 50 to Rs 100 per bag.
- Bitumen and petrochemical products such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and PVC.
These hikes, they warned, would inevitably drive up costs for housing and infrastructure projects, straining both developers and consumers.
Transportation Costs on the Rise with Airfares and Toll Charges
On the transportation front, the leaders noted that airfares have surged by 10-15% due to increased fuel surcharges. Additionally, road toll charges are set to increase by approximately 5% from April 1. Surjewala went further, alleging that toll collections amounted to "highway robbery," claiming that since 2019–20, a staggering Rs 23,000 crore had been collected from Karnataka alone. He specifically cited the Bengaluru–Mysuru highway, accusing authorities of collecting tolls before the project's completion.
Postal Service and Overall Policy Criticisms
The duo also flagged increases in postal charges, stating that Speed Post rates have risen by 34%. Shivakumar attributed these widespread cost escalations to the Centre's policy decisions and its handling of global economic factors, which he said have led to higher prices across essential services. In contrast, he praised the Karnataka state government's welfare programs, asserting that its guarantee schemes are providing crucial financial support to households grappling with inflationary pressures.
Call for Central Intervention to Ease Public Burden
Concluding their remarks, Shivakumar urged the Central government to introduce immediate and effective measures to alleviate the financial strain on the public. He emphasized the need for proactive steps to curb inflation and support vulnerable populations, highlighting the state's efforts as a model for compassionate governance amidst economic challenges.
