Rs 3 Fuel Hike Sparks Fresh Political Firestorm
The Opposition on Friday intensified its attack on the Narendra Modi government after petrol and diesel prices were increased by Rs 3 per litre across the country, accusing the Centre of forcing ordinary citizens to bear the burden of rising economic pressure and inflation.
Several opposition leaders claimed the latest fuel price increase would not remain limited to petrol pumps and warned that the impact would gradually spread to transport, food items, household essentials and daily living expenses.
Launching a sharp criticism of the government, opposition leaders said, “The Modi government’s mistake, the public will pay the price. The ₹3 shock has already arrived, the rest of the recovery will be done in installments.”
Fuel Prices Rise Across Major Cities
Following the revised rates, petrol prices in New Delhi climbed to Rs 97.77 per litre, while diesel crossed Rs 90 per litre. In Mumbai, petrol prices surged above Rs 106, making it one of the costliest metro cities for fuel consumers.
The Centre announced the fuel hike amid rising global crude oil prices triggered by the ongoing West Asia conflict and disruptions in international energy supply routes, including the Strait of Hormuz.
Apart from petrol and diesel, CNG prices were also increased, raising fears of higher transportation costs and inflationary pressure in urban areas.
Opposition Says Public Will Face Bigger Inflation Shock
Political parties opposing the Centre argued that the fuel price increase would directly impact household budgets and eventually make several daily-use items more expensive.
Leaders claimed that transportation costs, vegetable prices, milk supply, online deliveries and public commuting expenses could rise if fuel prices continue increasing in the coming weeks.
The Opposition also accused the government of delaying the decision until after the conclusion of Assembly elections, alleging that citizens are now being made to absorb the economic burden.
BJP Defends Hike, Blames Global Oil Crisis
The Bharatiya Janata Party defended the decision, stating that global crude oil prices had surged sharply due to escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
BJP leaders argued that despite international crude prices crossing the $100 per barrel mark, India had managed to keep fuel price increases lower than several major economies.
Government representatives also said state-run oil companies had absorbed heavy financial losses for weeks before revising fuel rates.
Rising Fuel Prices May Affect Everyday Life
Economists believe the fuel price hike could gradually affect several sectors because transportation costs influence almost every part of the economy, from agriculture and logistics to retail and services.
If crude oil prices remain elevated globally, experts warn that inflationary pressure could continue rising in the coming months, affecting both urban and rural households.
