Rahul Gandhi criticizes government, calls LPG hike an “election bill”

Rahul Gandhi sharply criticized the Central government over the steep rise in commercial LPG cylinder prices, calling it an “election bill” and warning that further fuel price hikes may follow. The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha said the impact of inflation, which he had earlier predicted, is now beginning to hit citizens after the conclusion of elections. On May 1, 2026, the price of a 19-kg commercial LPG cylinder was increased by a record ₹993, taking the cost in Delhi to ₹3,071.50. This marks the third consecutive monthly hike, following increases of ₹195.50 in April and ₹114.50 in March. According to Gandhi, the cumulative rise of ₹1,380 since February represents an 81% surge in just three months—placing a heavy burden on small businesses such as tea stalls, dhabas, hotels, bakeries, and sweet shops. He warned that these rising operational costs would inevitably translate into higher food prices for consumers. Gandhi also alleged that this price hike reflects a pattern, suggesting that the government holds back difficult economic decisions until after elections. He cautioned that petrol and diesel prices could be next, intensifying the financial strain on the public. He further accused the government of profiting when global crude oil prices were low and now shifting the burden onto citizens as prices rise. Echoing similar concerns, K. C. Venugopal stated that the timing of the hike reveals the ruling party’s lack of concern for ordinary citizens beyond election cycles. He emphasized that the increase would affect millions who depend on affordable food from small eateries and would also hurt small food businesses. The surge in LPG prices has been linked to rising global energy costs, driven in part by disruptions in supply chains due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia. Despite this, opposition leaders argue that the government should have implemented measures to shield consumers from such shocks instead of passing on the entire burden. While commercial LPG prices have risen sharply, domestic cooking gas rates remain unchanged for now. However, with global oil prices reportedly increasing by nearly 50%, concerns persist that household expenses could rise further in the coming months.