Fuel price hike sparks protests and political backlash in India

Petrol and diesel prices in India have been increased by three rupees per litre, triggering public protests and sharp criticism from opposition parties, 24NewsHD TV reported on Friday. 

The latest increase comes after fuel prices in India had remained unchanged since 2022.

In March 2024, just days before the Lok Sabha elections, the government had reduced petrol and diesel prices by two rupees per litre.

News of the latest increase prompted angry citizens to take to the streets, while opposition parties accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government of burdening the public.

The opposition Indian National Congress strongly criticised the move in a statement posted on X, saying Modi had “once again whipped the public.”

The party added that with state elections now over, the government had started “recovering” its political costs through higher fuel prices.

Meanwhile, Reuters reported that Indian officials defended the increase, saying it was aimed at easing pressure on the domestic market caused by rising global oil prices.