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Sharad Pawar, chief of the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar), on Sunday criticised the Centre over rising prices, saying the government would have to pay a “political price” as repeated hikes in essential commodities continue to burden ordinary citizens.

He said people across the country are struggling due to inflation and questioned the government’s claim that price rise remains under control. Pawar argued that the situation on the ground reflects persistent cost pressures that are directly impacting household budgets.

Vijay Wadettiwar, a leader of the Maharashtra Congress, also attacked the BJP, alleging that the party has abandoned its earlier stance on inflation. He said the ruling party no longer shows the same concern over rising prices that it demonstrated while in opposition.

The comments came after domestic LPG cylinder prices were increased by Rs 29 per unit, marking the second hike in three months as state-run fuel retailers continue to face high global energy costs. This follows an earlier Rs 60-per-cylinder increase announced on March 7 after disruptions in West Asia pushed up international fuel prices.

 

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Responding to the latest hike, Pawar said, “The prime minister says inflation is under control. Control means subjecting people to step-by-step shock. Those responsible will have to pay a political price".

Wadettiwar also criticised the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in Maharashtra over the repeated increases in domestic LPG prices. He said BJP leaders had previously protested sharply against fuel price hikes during the UPA era but have remained silent despite multiple increases in recent years.

He further pointed out that commercial LPG prices have risen significantly in recent months, while petrol, diesel, and CNG rates have also seen several revisions over time. According to him, inflation is severely affecting household budgets and placing additional strain on middle-class and economically weaker sections.