Bhubaneswar: Biju Janata Dal (BJD), the principal Opposition party in Odisha, has denounced the steep hike in the price of commercial LPG cylinder.

The Naveen Patnaik-led party has termed the Rs 993 hike in the price of commercial LPG cylinder as ‘unjustified and insensitive’ and claimed that the move has imposed additional burden on the common people.

The Opposition party sought an immediate rollback of the commercial LPG cylinder price hike.

 Addressing a press conference at the BJD headquarters in the capital city here, Biju Mahila Janata Dal president Snehangini Chhuria and senior general secretary Ranjita Sahu expressed deep concern over the steep rise in LPG price. They stated that the price of commercial LPG cylinder has surged sharply, reaching Rs 3071.50, an all-time high. Over the past four months, prices have reportedly increased six times, rising from Rs 1518 to Rs 3071.50.

Commercial LPG price hike will affect tourism sector, says BJD

Chhuria stated that LPG price has increased by Rs 993 in a single day, creating a record. “On the occasion of International Workers’ Day, greetings were extended to all those who contribute their labour and play a key role in the nation’s development. However, it is extremely unfortunate that on this very day, the government has given them the gift of increased gas prices. Instead of celebrating the contributions of workers, they have been burdened with additional financial stress,” she said.

The BJD leaders emphasized that the Rs 993 hike in the price of commercial LPG cylinder will severely impact small businesses, restaurants, tea stalls, and the hospitality sector, leading to increased operational costs and higher prices for consumers. They pointed out that even small 5-litre cylinders used by common people have seen a price hike of Rs 261, further straining household budgets.

“Although the government had promised to boost tourism, the rising cost of cooking gas is making it difficult for hotels and small establishments in tourist destinations to operate. Due to higher LPG prices, they are being forced to increase food prices, which may ultimately affect tourism growth,” Chhuria said.

Similarly, Sahu questioned the rationale behind the hike in the price of commercial LPG cylinder. She alleged that continuous hikes in LPG prices have contributed to rising inflation and reduced household savings.