Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, May 26: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday criticised the Central government over rising fuel prices, questioning why consumers were not given relief despite fluctuations in global crude oil prices over the past 12 years.

Kharge cited official PIB data and said that on May 26, 2014, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office, the Indian basket crude oil price stood at USD 108.05 per barrel, with the rupee-dollar exchange rate at Rs 58.59.

He noted that at the time, petrol was priced at Rs 71.51 per litre and diesel at Rs 56.71 per litre. However, he pointed out that despite crude oil prices now being below USD 99 per barrel, petrol prices have risen to Rs 102.12 per litre and diesel to Rs 95.20 per litre.

Kharge alleged that petrol has become about 42.8 per cent more expensive and diesel nearly 67.9 per cent costlier, calling it a burden on common citizens.

He said rising fuel prices affect all sectors, including transport and food supply, and contribute significantly to inflation.

“The question is straightforward: when crude oil prices have fallen, why have petrol and diesel become more expensive?” Kharge asked, accusing the government of continued “profiteering”.

He also questioned who was benefiting from what he described as a “daily burden on citizens”.

The Congress party has been intensifying its criticism over recent fuel price hikes, with senior leader Rahul Gandhi also targeting the government over rising inflation.

Petrol and diesel prices were recently increased by Rs 2.61–2.71 per litre, marking the fourth hike in less than two weeks as state-run fuel retailers adjusted rates in line with global oil price movements.