The Congress party has strongly criticized the BJP government at the Centre for the surging prices during the festival season, asserting that this will be the last Diwali when people have to endure such inflation. They contend that the Indian government will need to swiftly change its policies, which are contributing to inflation and allegedly benefiting the Prime Minister's associates.
In a statement posted on X, Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh expressed his concerns, saying, "The festive season that traditionally brings happiness is now causing anxiety among the people due to the skyrocketing prices of essential commodities."
He highlighted that onion prices have surged by over 90%, nearly reaching Rs 100 per kilogram. Additionally, the cost of arhar dal has increased by 40% within a year, now priced at Rs 152.
Ramesh emphasized, "This will be the last Diwali when people have to endure such difficulties due to inflation. The public is becoming increasingly disillusioned with the current government, and they are prepared for a change in 2024. The Indian government needs to promptly revise its policies that are fueling inflation and allegedly favoring the Prime Minister's associates, aiming to provide relief to the common people."
The Congress party has consistently criticized the government for rising inflation. The prices of essential items like onions have surged, with reports of them being sold at Rs 80 to 90 per kilogram in various parts of the country.
Notably, a coalition of at least 28 political parties has formed the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc, with the aim of challenging the BJP government at the Centre. This alliance signifies a growing opposition to the current ruling party's policies and actions.
(With Agency Inputs)
