Commercial LPG Price Surge Draws Strong Criticism from Telangana Minister

Telangana Civil Supplies Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy has strongly condemned the central government's move to increase commercial LPG cylinder prices, labeling the decision as 'very unfortunate.' The minister warned that this price hike would place a significant financial strain on small businesses, street vendors, hotels, and restaurants, ultimately impacting everyday consumers.

Reddy accused the BJP-led central government of deceit, claiming that the timing of the price increase was intentional, coming just after the conclusion of the West Bengal elections. According to him, the hike of approximately Rs 993 per cylinder amounts to a 30-35 percent rise, occurring swiftly within a day of the polls' conclusion.

The steep increase is likely to cause an immediate ripple effect on food prices, thus affecting the common man. The minister highlighted that commercial LPG cylinders are extensively used by various hospitality businesses and vendors, making the cost surge a broad economic concern.

(With inputs from agencies.)