BJD strongly criticizes increase in fuel prices and demands assistance for the public.

The Biju Janata Dal, on Monday, expressed their disapproval of the BJP-led government's "double-engine" approach, criticizing the continuous rise in prices of essential commodities such as petrol, diesel, and LPG. According to the BJD, despite a decrease in global crude oil prices, the burden on the common people has only increased. At a press conference held in Shankha Bhawan, Bhubaneswar, Snehangini Chhuria, the President of Biju Mahila Janata Dal, highlighted the fact that even though the international crude oil prices have gone down, the prices of petrol, diesel, and cooking gas have only gone up.

Chhuria condemned the state and union governments, stating that the prices of domestic LPG cylinders have almost doubled since 2014, from Rs 415 to Rs 968. She also pointed out the abnormally high increases in the prices of petrol, diesel, and commercial gas cylinders, which have put immense financial pressure on the ordinary citizens. Chhuria further added that the rise in prices has been particularly harsh on lower-income and middle-class families, small traders, and business owners.

With the continuous increase in cooking gas prices, managing household expenses has become increasingly difficult for the common people. She questioned the lack of benefits for consumers from the decrease in international crude oil prices and urged the government to lower taxes on petroleum products. Chhuria also demanded the inclusion of petrol and diesel under the Goods and Services Tax regime, which she believes could help reduce fuel prices and provide relief to the citizens.

The BJD leader also expressed her concerns over the safety of women in Odisha, claiming that incidents of rape, gang rape, and violence against women have been on the rise in the state. She accused the government of not taking appropriate measures to address these issues and called for stronger actions to ensure the safety and security of women. In conclusion, the BJD called upon both the central and state governments to take immediate steps to lower the prices of petrol, diesel, and LPG, and provide relief to the citizens struggling with the increasing cost of living.

They also urged the government to take necessary actions to ensure the safety and well-being of women in the state. As the leading English daily in Odisha, Orissa POST will continue to bring you the latest updates on this issue.