New Delhi: Indian consumers are facing higher costs for cooking gas as prices of LPG cylinders have recently increased nationwide. This latest hike has drawn strong criticism from opposition parties, who accuse the central government of burdening ordinary citizens with rising inflation.
The price adjustments, which came into effect from a recent Saturday, saw a significant rise in both domestic and commercial LPG cylinder rates. A standard 14.2-kilogram domestic cylinder is now Rs 60 more expensive, while the larger 19-kilogram commercial cylinder has gone up by Rs 115.
Opposition Parties Condemn Price Increase
The **Congress party** led the charge against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the ruling BJP government. They have labeled PM Modi as "Inflation Man," suggesting his policies are directly responsible for the increasing cost of living.
- In a statement shared on social media, the Congress highlighted that the Rs 60 increase for domestic cylinders directly impacts countless households.
- They also pointed out that commercial LPG cylinder prices have climbed by Rs 307 over the last three months, emphasizing a continuous upward trend.
Pawan Khera Challenges Minister's Assurances
Congress leader Pawan Khera specifically targeted Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. Khera questioned the minister's earlier assurances about making fuel affordable for citizens.
Khera's remarks came shortly after Minister Puri had stated, "Our priority is to ensure availability of affordable and sustainable fuel for our citizens, and we are doing it comfortably. There is no shortage of energy in India, and there is no cause of worry for our energy consumers."
Responding to the hike, Khera posted online, "Never believe a word of what Hardeep Singh Puri says," implying a contradiction between the minister's words and the government's actions.
Mamata Banerjee Expresses Concerns for Families
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also voiced her disapproval, highlighting the difficulties faced by ordinary families. She raised concerns about the need to book gas cylinders well in advance and the reduced quota for kerosene, questioning how families would manage their daily cooking needs.
Banerjee stated, "You’re increasing the prices of things every day. This is why you want votes deleted? To break Bengal? Others may be scared of you, but we aren’t. We will unmask you."
Revised LPG Prices in Major Cities
Following the latest changes, here’s how the prices for LPG cylinders have been adjusted in key Indian cities:
14.2-kg Domestic LPG Cylinder Prices
| City | Old Price (Rs) | New Price (Rs) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 853.00 | 913.00 |
| Mumbai | 852.50 | 912.50 |
| Kolkata | 879.00 | 939.00 |
| Chennai | 868.50 | 928.50 |
19-kg Commercial LPG Cylinder Prices
| City | Old Price (Rs) | New Price (Rs) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 1,768.50 | 1,883.00 |
| Mumbai | 1,720.50 | 1,835.00 |
| Kolkata | 1,875.50 | 1,990.00 |
| Chennai | 1,929.00 | 2,043.50 |
Background and Context
The last significant change to domestic LPG prices occurred a few months prior, when the non-subsidized rate in Delhi stood at Rs 853. These price adjustments come amidst ongoing global concerns about crude oil supplies, particularly due to tensions in West Asia that could affect shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz.
Despite these global uncertainties, government sources had previously indicated that India's reserves of oil, petroleum products, and LPG were in a "very comfortable position," leading to the opposition's strong reaction to the current price hikes.
