FuelPrices – Rahul Gandhi Criticises Government Over Fresh Petrol Diesel Hike
FuelPrices – Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday intensified his criticism of the central government after another increase in petrol and diesel prices, accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of putting additional financial pressure on ordinary citizens already dealing with rising living costs.
The remarks came shortly after state-owned fuel companies announced another hike in retail fuel prices across the country. Petrol rates were increased by up to Rs 2.61 per litre, while diesel prices rose by nearly Rs 2.71 per litre. This marks the fourth upward revision in less than two weeks, further adding to concerns over inflation and transportation expenses.
Rahul Gandhi Targets Centre Over Inflation
Addressing the issue through a post on social media platform X, Rahul Gandhi described the Prime Minister as an “inflation man” and alleged that the government was gradually burdening the public through repeated fuel price revisions.
The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha claimed that promises are made during election campaigns, but after polls conclude, citizens are left facing higher expenses. According to Gandhi, the repeated increases in petrol and diesel prices are directly affecting household budgets and everyday spending.
He also stated that he had previously warned about worsening economic conditions and rising inflationary pressure. Gandhi argued that the latest fuel hikes would have a wider impact beyond vehicle owners, eventually influencing the prices of goods and services across sectors.
Fuel Prices Continue Upward Trend
With the latest revision, cumulative fuel price increases since May 15 have approached nearly Rs 7.5 per litre. The recent adjustments follow a long period during which retail fuel rates had remained largely unchanged.
In Delhi, petrol prices climbed to Rs 102.12 per litre from the earlier Rs 99.51, while diesel rates increased to Rs 95.20 per litre from Rs 92.49, according to industry data.
Experts believe that continued fuel price increases could contribute to higher transportation costs, which may eventually push up prices of essential commodities, food items, and logistics services. Economists have also warned that sustained inflation could place additional strain on consumers and small businesses.
Global Crude Oil Prices Behind Domestic Increase
The latest hikes in India are linked to the sharp rise in international crude oil prices over recent months. Global oil markets have witnessed significant volatility following geopolitical tensions in West Asia, particularly after military actions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Industry analysts noted that crude oil prices have jumped by more than 50 percent since late February. Concerns over disruptions in shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit channels, have also contributed to uncertainty in energy markets.
As India imports a large portion of its crude oil requirements, changes in global prices often influence domestic fuel costs. Oil marketing companies have continued revising retail rates in response to fluctuations in international crude prices and currency movements.
Political Debate Intensifies
The fuel price issue has once again become a major political talking point between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and the opposition Congress. Opposition leaders have repeatedly questioned the government over inflation, rising living expenses, and the impact of fuel costs on middle-class and lower-income families.
Meanwhile, the government has maintained that global factors are largely responsible for the recent increases. Officials have also pointed to international market instability and supply disruptions as key reasons behind the price revisions.
With fuel rates continuing to rise, economists and political observers expect the debate over inflation and economic management to remain at the centre of national political discussions in the coming weeks.