Political leaders in Kerala reacted sharply on Friday after state-run oil marketing companies increased the price of commercial LPG cylinders, a move that triggered criticism over its economic and political impact. While domestic cylinder prices were left unchanged, the revision drew responses from both ruling and opposition leaders, along with the BJP.

CPM questions central government’s handling of global impact

CPM state secretary M V Govindan said the hike reflected what he described as the central government’s failure to protect India from the impact of the conflict in West Asia.

Speaking to reporters, he said the increase in commercial LPG prices would eventually affect households across the country.

“This is the impact of the ongoing war, which has affected people across the globe. The price hike is an example of the Indian government's failure to effectively curb its impact,” he said.

Govindan alleged that such policy decisions were aimed at benefiting industrial monopolists.

“We expect there will be strong protests against this across the country. The central government cannot answer the public as it always favours capitalist forces, and such attempts have gained momentum under the cover of war,” he said.

Congress alleges timing of hike after elections

AICC general secretary K C Venugopal criticised the central government, alleging that the LPG price increase came immediately after Assembly elections in several states concluded.

The Alappuzha MP said the hike would directly affect the public.

“The decision to increase the price is extremely harmful to the people. It is a betrayal that the hike has come immediately after the election. Till the election, it was said that prices would not be increased, and soon after it was over, they were raised substantially,” he said.

He demanded withdrawal of the hike and said it could signal future increases in petroleum product prices.

“If you look at the track record of the current central government, they do not increase prices during the election period. Soon after elections are over, they raise prices substantially. People are already facing inflation-related hardships, and this will worsen the situation,” he said.

Venugopal said nationwide protests would be organised against the move.

BJP defends price revision

Defending the LPG price hike, Kerala’s lone BJP MP and Union Minister Suresh Gopi said global comparisons should be considered before criticism.

“Look around the world and see where prices have increased and by how much. Haven’t we managed to hold it steady so far?” he said.

He did not respond to a question on whether petrol and diesel prices would also increase.