Congress hits out at PM Modi over Rs 993 commercial LPG hike, calls him ‘inflation man’

Congress slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the sharp increase in commercial LPG cylinder prices, alleging a pattern of price hikes. The Centre raised the price of a 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder by Rs 993, taking the cost in Delhi to Rs 3,071.50, while domestic LPG prices remained unchanged. In a post on X, Congress termed Modi ‘Inflation Man Modi’ and detailed the cumulative rise in commercial LPG prices over recent months, listing specific increases from January to May. Manickam Tagore, a Congress MP, criticized the timing of the hike, linking it to the conclusion of polling in parts of the country, suggesting a political motive. He alleged that the price jump would affect small businesses and vendors, while also hinting at a pattern tied to Adani’s empire growth. The Centre clarified that the revision applies only to commercial LPG cylinders and bulk categories, leaving domestic LPG prices unchanged. Indian Oil Corporation stated that domestic consumers were insulated from price volatility, with only 1% of total consumption affected. The hike was justified as part of aligning domestic pricing with global energy trends, despite geopolitical tensions in West Asia driving Brent crude prices to around $126 before easing to $113. The opposition framed the move as politically motivated and a burden on small businesses, sparking a broader debate on inflation and energy pricing.