Commercial LPG price hike of Rs 991 is anti-people decision: Lakshmi Hebbalkar

Belagavi: Karnataka Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar on Friday (May 1) strongly criticised the Centre over the sharp increase in commercial gas cylinder prices, calling it an “anti-people decision”.

Speaking to reporters, she said the price of commercial LPG cylinders has been increased from Rs 2,162 to Rs 3,153, describing the move as unprecedented.

She said such a sharp rise had never been seen earlier and alleged that the decision reflects a disregard for public welfare after elections in some states were completed.

She further said the decision appears to ignore earlier assurances made to the public and added that it would directly affect the hotel industry as well as common people.

According to her, the increase will put heavy pressure on hotel owners who are already struggling with rising costs.

She said food prices are likely to increase further, which could impact daily household expenses and create difficulties for ordinary citizens.

Lakshmi Hebbalkar also alleged that the central government is repeatedly taking decisions that burden people after elections and demanded immediate steps to control prices and protect livelihoods.

Meanwhile, reports stated that the price hike of Rs 993 has been recorded in the commercial 19-kg LPG cylinder segment.

However, aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices have remained unchanged despite fluctuations in global crude oil prices. Officials attributed the LPG price increase to rising global crude oil rates.