Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has demanded that the Union government withdraw the recent increase in cooking gas prices. In a statement, Vijayan said that imposing additional burdens on people solely for the profit of oil companies is unacceptable. He added that the central policy protecting corporate interests needs to be revised.
Historic Price Hike Affects Lives
The chief minister described the price hike as the most severe in the history of cooking gas, critically affecting people's lives. He noted that the price of a commercial LPG cylinder has been increased by approximately Rs 993, bringing it to over Rs 3,000. This move devastates the hotel and restaurant sector, which is already struggling.
Impact on Migrant Workers and Small Families
Vijayan highlighted that the price of a 5 kg LPG cylinder, relied upon by migrant workers and small families, has been increased by Rs 251.5. This increase plunges ordinary people, small entrepreneurs, and guest workers into a severe crisis. He pointed out that the hike came immediately after legislative assembly elections in several states.
Middle East Crisis Worsens Situation
Due to the Middle East crisis, the hotel industry has faced a cooking gas shortage for months and cannot bear this unjust price hike. Ultimately, the burden falls on ordinary people. Many small businesses, including those in Kerala, are facing closure, Vijayan added.
