LPG price hike: Kerala hotels, restaurants to remain closed on May 6 in protest

Kochi: The Kerala Hotel and Restaurant Association (KHRA) on Friday announced a statewide protest strike on May 6 against the increase in commercial LPG cylinder prices.

KHRA state president G Jayapal said all hotels and restaurants across Kerala will remain closed on the day as part of the protest against what he described as an "unfair" hike in LPG prices.

He said, “the price of a commercial LPG cylinder was hiked by Rs 993 on Friday.”

He further added, “In the last five months, the price of a single cylinder has increased by a total of Rs 1,498.”

Price hike details raise concern

The association highlighted the sharp increase in commercial LPG rates announced on Friday by oil companies. The revision has drawn criticism from opposition parties, including the Congress and CPM.

KHRA general secretary N Abdul Razak said the food production and distribution sector was under pressure due to prevailing conditions.

Protest plan across Kerala

He said the agitation would begin at the unit and district levels before the shutdown.

“Prior to the closure of shops, protest strikes will be held at the unit and district levels. On May 6, shops will remain closed, and protest marches and dharnas will be held in front of district headquarters and oil company offices,” he said.

Oil companies on Friday announced a hike in commercial LPG cylinder prices, drawing criticism from opposition parties, including the Congress and CPI(M).