Cong condemns Rs 50 hike in price of LPG cylinder

Chandigarh Congress president HS Lucky has criticised the Narendra Modi-led Central Government for once again burdening the common man by increasing the price of domestic LPG cylinders by Rs 50, hitting household budgets.

Calling the price hike “cruel and unjustified”, Lucky said, “The Modi government has made it a habit to exploit basic household needs as a means of revenue generation. This Rs 50 hike in cooking gas comes at a time when families across the country are already reeling under inflation and job losses. It is shameful and insensitive.”

In May 2014, the price of a domestic LPG cylinder was around Rs 410-450 in most cities. As of April 2025, the price has crossed Rs 1,150 in many states — an increase of nearly 150 per cent.

Just in the last two years, there have been multiple hikes, with cylinder cost rising by Rs 300 or more cumulatively even as global energy prices have remained volatile, but not alarmingly high. In contrast, the government has cut subsidies drastically, forcing poor and middle-class families to pay full prices.

Lucky added, “Where is the promise of ‘achhe din’? People are now forced to choose between essentials. Women and families depending on clean cooking fuel are being pushed back to firewood and kerosene.”

He accused the BJP government of failing to protect the interests of ordinary citizens while favouring corporates and collecting massive revenues through fuel taxes. Lucky demanded an immediate roll back of the LPG price hike and reinstatement of subsidies for poor and lower-middle-income households.

“The Congress stands united with the people of India against this exploitative regime. We will raise this issue on the streets and take it to the Parliament,” he concluded.