Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has called upon the Central Government to immediately rescind the recent sharp increase in LPG prices. On Sunday, the Chief Minister issued a statement condemning the move, which he believes has placed an unbearable financial strain on the general public and small-scale industries.

Vijayan categorised the price revision as "one of the most cruel" in history, noting that it has plunged both ordinary households and local entrepreneurs into huge hardship.

Impact on commercial and small sectors

The Chief Minister highlighted that the cost of a commercial LPG cylinder surged by ₹993 in a single update, pushing the total price beyond the ₹3,000 mark. He warned that this spike would have a devastating ripple effect on the hotel and restaurant industry. Furthermore, the ₹251.50 price hike for 5-kg cylinders is expected to disproportionately affect migrant labourers and small families who rely on them.

Criticism of timing and policy

Vijayan alleged that the timing of the hike—occurring just after state Assembly elections—was a calculated move that unfairly burdens the working class and small business owners. He pointed out that with the ongoing West Asia crisis already causing a supply shortage in the hospitality sector, this price surge is impossible for many to absorb.

"The burden would ultimately be passed on to consumers," Vijayan stated, cautioning that many small businesses in Kerala might be forced to close their doors.

The Chief Minister concluded by accusing oil marketing companies of putting profits ahead of the public interest and criticized the Union Government for policies that appear to favor corporate interests. He demanded an urgent correction in this approach and the immediate withdrawal of the "excessive hike”.
The record-breaking ₹993 increase on May 1 marks the third consecutive monthly rise, driven largely by global energy fluctuations tied to the West Asia conflict.

PTI