The Congress party has intensified its criticism of the central government, highlighting rising fuel prices, LPG shortages, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s absence from key discussions and public engagements. The party accused the government of failing to address critical concerns affecting citizens nationwide.
Congress leader Pawan Khera stressed that ensuring uninterrupted access to LPG cylinders and curbing black marketing should be top priorities for the Centre. He pointed out that households across several states are facing long queues and paying inflated prices for LPG, while petrol and diesel shortages exacerbate the financial strain on consumers.
Khera drew attention to agricultural logistics, noting that nearly 60,000 tonnes of basmati rice remain stuck at sea, compounding economic pressures on farmers. He argued that these issues reflect a broader governance gap, where citizens bear the brunt of supply chain challenges and inflation.
Stepping up his critique, Khera questioned the Prime Minister’s engagement in political and parliamentary responsibilities. He claimed that Modi has largely remained absent from election campaigns and crucial all-party meetings. “The real concern is not the absence of the Leader of the Opposition but the Prime Minister’s consistent non-participation,” he said. Khera added that rising fuel prices and LPG shortages are central issues that directly impact citizens’ daily lives.
He further alleged that despite visible hardships, including black marketing of essential commodities near the national Capital, the government has not acted effectively. “Queues are forming, black marketing is occurring, and the administration has not responded adequately. The Prime Minister appears to be either ignoring the reality or turning a blind eye,” Khera said.
The Congress leader also noted that several states have reportedly expressed reluctance for the Prime Minister’s participation in election campaigning. He implied that the lack of leadership visibility is contributing to public dissatisfaction amid rising living costs.
In response to these concerns, Congress has repeatedly emphasised the need for the government to stabilise prices and ensure sufficient supplies of critical commodities. Party officials argue that citizens’ immediate access to fuel and LPG, as well as agricultural logistics, should remain central to policy action.
The government, meanwhile, maintains that it is taking steps to maintain domestic supply chains, manage inventories, and mitigate the impact of international energy price fluctuations. Authorities have also highlighted ongoing efforts to expand domestic LPG production, diversify crude imports, and strengthen strategic reserves to cushion the economy from global disruptions.
As fuel and LPG shortages continue to draw attention, opposition parties are likely to sustain pressure on the government, linking energy supply, inflation, and governance accountability to broader national debates on public welfare and economic management.
