New Delhi, April 6: Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Monday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi over rising LPG prices, alleging that the Centre’s handling of the situation has pushed poor and migrant workers into distress.
In a post on X, Gandhi said, “Modi ji had said we would handle the LPG gas crisis just like COVID. And that is exactly what they did — just like COVID: zero policy, grand announcements, and the burden falling on the poor. For migrant workers earning ₹500–800 a day, cooking gas has become completely unaffordable.”
He highlighted the impact on labourers and industries, stating that many workers returning home at night cannot afford even basic cooking needs, forcing them to leave cities and return to villages. He added that workers, who form the backbone of textile mills and factories, are now under severe strain.
Gandhi also linked the issue to broader economic concerns, alleging policy failures by the government. He said the textile sector was already struggling and manufacturing is under pressure, blaming what he described as poor decision-making at the diplomatic level.
Questioning the impact on vulnerable sections, he said, “In every crisis, why does the poor man suffer the most?” and urged people not to remain silent.
Meanwhile, addressing a rally in Puducherry, Gandhi alleged that the current government in the Union Territory is “imposed from Delhi” and does not reflect the will of the people. He also accused the BJP of failing to grant full statehood and encouraging corruption.
The Congress leader announced several welfare measures, including ₹2,000 monthly assistance for unemployed youth, creation of 30,000 jobs, free bus travel for women, relaxation in government job age limits, and ₹20 lakh health insurance for families.
Polling in Puducherry is scheduled for April 9, with counting of votes on May 4, according to the Election Commission of India. The current Assembly term is set to end on June 15. (Agency)
