Political reactions have intensified following a one-time increase of ₹993 in the price of commercial gas cylinders across the country.
Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Saturday expressed concern over the hike, saying it would impact ordinary people and could further drive up inflation.
She said that amid a severe shortage of commercial cylinders, news of the sudden price hike, prominently reported in the media, has caused public anxiety. She added that this could lead to an increase in the prices of cooking gas, as well as petrol, diesel, and other petroleum products.
Questioning the reasons for this situation, Mayawati said that, whether due to international circumstances or other factors, the government should frame policies keeping the interests of the general public in mind.
She suggested that just as petroleum product prices were kept under control during the elections, public interest and welfare should be prioritised today as well.
Citing the example of Delhi, she said that under the new rates, the price of a commercial cylinder will exceed ₹3,000, adding to the burden on the poor and middle class, who are already struggling with inflation.
Mayawati appealed to the government to assess the impact of prices and take balanced decisions to reduce the economic pressure on the general public.