June 4 statewide protests in Kerala: CPIM's MV Govindan blames Satheesan govt for fuel price hike

Thiruvananthapuram: The political battle over rising fuel prices intensified in Kerala on Tuesday as CPIM state secretary MV Govindan launched a sharp attack on Chief Minister VD Satheesan, accusing him of abandoning the positions he championed while in the opposition.

Addressing reporters in Thiruvananthapuram, Govindan alleged that the UDF government has failed to respond to the growing burden placed on ordinary people by rising fuel and cooking gas prices.

CPIM questions Satheesan's silence

Govindan recalled that Satheesan had previously been among the strongest critics of fuel taxation when the Left government was in power.

According to the CPIM leader, the current Chief Minister had publicly demanded tax reductions and even participated in symbolic protests against fuel price increases while serving as Leader of the Opposition.

"Fuel prices have been increased four times since Satheesan became Chief Minister, yet he remains silent," Govindan alleged.

'Rs 8 increase in just 11 days'

The CPI(M) leader claimed that fuel prices had risen by Rs 8 within a span of 11 days, placing additional pressure on households already struggling with inflation.

He argued that the impact extends beyond vehicle owners and is affecting multiple sectors of the economy.

According to Govindan, rising fuel costs are increasing transportation expenses, which in turn affect the prices of essential goods and services.

LPG prices adding to concerns

Govindan also highlighted the impact of cooking gas price increases, saying the hikes were creating difficulties for institutions and businesses.

He claimed that schools operating midday meal programmes were facing additional financial pressure, while restaurants and hotels were also dealing with rising operating costs.

The CPI(M) leader further argued that the private bus sector was experiencing growing challenges due to increasing fuel expenses.

Criticism of Centre and State

While targeting the state government, Govindan also criticised the Centre's handling of the international situation, particularly the impact of tensions in West Asia on energy prices.

He alleged that both the Central and State governments had failed to adequately address the consequences of rising fuel costs.

The CPIM leader questioned why the UDF government's policy address in the Assembly did not contain stronger criticism of the Centre's approach to fuel pricing and related economic issues.

CPIM announces statewide protests

Amid the escalating political confrontation, Govindan announced that the CPIM would organise statewide protests on June 4.

The demonstrations will be held at district and area levels across Kerala and will target both the Central and State governments over issues including fuel prices and the rising cost of living.

Why the issue matters

Fuel prices remain one of the most politically sensitive issues in Kerala, where increases in petrol, diesel and LPG costs often trigger wider concerns about inflation.

Higher fuel prices affect transportation, food distribution, public transport operations and household budgets, making the issue a significant concern for consumers and businesses alike.

With both the ruling UDF and opposition CPIM seeking to shape the narrative, the fuel price debate is likely to remain a major political flashpoint in the coming weeks.