CPI(M) blasts Modi government over escalating economic crisis amid soaring fuel prices and agricultural woes

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) strongly criticised the Narendra Modi-led government on Wednesday, accusing it of pushing the nation towards a severe economic crisis due to rising fuel costs, cooking gas shortages, inflation, unemployment, and increasing agricultural distress.

In a statement, CPI(M) general secretary M A Baby highlighted that widespread shortages of cooking gas cylinders are forcing people to rely on the black market, while successive fuel price hikes are inflating the costs of essential goods.

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“There is a shortage of gas cylinders, leaving no choice but to depend on the black market. Fuel prices have already increased twice, with more hikes anticipated, which is driving up essential commodity prices,” Baby said.

He also pointed to the Indian rupee’s sharp decline, calling it the “worst-performing major currency globally,” which, combined with shrinking job opportunities, is burdening ordinary citizens with reduced purchasing power.

“Jobs are fewer, incomes are down, yet prices keep rising. Your money simply doesn’t stretch as far as it used to,” he added.

Addressing the agricultural sector, Baby warned that below-average rainfall and an impending fertiliser shortage could worsen farmers’ hardships. He accused the government of inadequate response, saying, “The government is merely advising farmers to reduce fertiliser use instead of providing real solutions. The situation is reaching a critical point.”

Baby also condemned Prime Minister Modi’s comments about poverty abroad, alleging a disconnect between rhetoric and domestic action.

“Modi speaks of ‘massive poverty’ overseas but fails to address the economic struggles faced by citizens at home,” he remarked.

Further, he accused the Centre’s policies of favouring corporate giants like Adani and Ambani, while sidelining workers, farmers, and small traders.

“The current crisis stems from government policies designed to benefit select corporate interests, disregarding the needs of the majority,” Baby asserted.

He urged the government to take immediate action rather than attributing the crisis solely to a global energy situation.

“Modi cannot hide behind the ‘energy crisis.’ The government must prioritise people’s welfare and act without delay,” he said.

The comments come amid ongoing political debates over inflation, fuel costs, unemployment, and rural distress, issues frequently raised by opposition parties against the Centre in recent months.