AAP criticises Centre over fuel price hike

Chandigarh, May 15

Aam Aadmi Party, Indian National Congress, and Shiromani Akali Dal on Friday criticized the Center over the recent increase in petrol and diesel prices, alleging that the decision would place an additional financial burden on the common people and adversely affect farmers.

Punjab Finance Minister and senior AAP leader Harpal Singh Cheema accused the BJP government of adopting an “anti-farmer and anti-people” approach through the fuel price hike.

“The central government first increases petrol and diesel prices by Rs 3 per liter and then announces only a Rs 72 per quintal rise in MSP for paddy. This is a direct attack on farmers’ incomes. By giving a minimal increase in MSP and raising diesel prices immediately after, the BJP government has effectively reduced the benefit meant for farmers,” Cheema said in a post on X.

Opposition leaders claimed that the increase in fuel prices would not only raise transportation and agricultural costs but would also impact daily household expenses for ordinary citizens. The remarks came amid growing political reactions over fuel pricing and agricultural support measures announced by the Centre.