APCC chief links rising costs to policy choices, says burden shifted to citizens and small businesses
Guwahati: Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Gaurav Gogoi on May 2 launched a sharp critique of the Centre’s economic approach, alleging that the country has entered a new phase of inflation following the end of election-related relief measures.
Framing the issue politically and economically, Gogoi stated, “Election relief is over, the real phase of price rise has begun,” suggesting that the temporary easing of prices during polls was followed by renewed financial pressure on citizens.
He further drew attention to earlier warnings by Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, noting that fuel prices were expected to rise after April 29. According to Gogoi, despite a period of relatively low international crude oil prices, the government chose to prioritise tax revenue rather than pass on benefits to consumers. Consequently, with global prices now increasing, “the full burden is being pushed onto the public and small businesses,” he argued.
In addition, Gogoi highlighted the recent increase in commercial LPG cylinder prices, emphasising its direct impact on small traders, shopkeepers, dhaba operators, and the hospitality sector. He described the situation as more than a routine price adjustment, calling it a result of what he termed a “policy of surrender.”
Expanding on his argument, Gogoi suggested that when governance prioritises revenue over public welfare, economic strain intensifies at the grassroots level. As a result, he said, ordinary citizens and small enterprises are left to absorb the consequences of policy decisions.
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