It is really a matter of great concern for the people of the country, especially middle-class and lower-income families, that the prices of domestic LPG and commercial cylinders have been hiked by a steep Rs 60 and Rs 114.5, respectively, on account of the increase in energy costs due to the present crucial situation in the Middle East. The announcement of price hike for domestic LPG has given a shock to several households in the country as they are already grappling with the high rate of inflation and cost of living.
It is known to one and all that cooking gas is not a luxury but an essential need for sustaining life. Such a surge in the prices of LPG directly hits the pockets of the common man, who is already struggling to sustain needs with prices of daily-use commodities touching the ceiling. This is not an exaggeration that any steep hike in LPG prices would affect household budgets forcing the families to cut down their basic expenditures, which is already strained due to sky-rocketing hike in prices of basic amenities.
The government should remain prepared for a backlash from the public due to this surge in the price of LPG. Therefore it is the time that the government should come up with a bailout plan by cutting taxes both at the central and state levels to provide relief to the people especially the poorer sections of the society. It is pertinent to mention that reportedly the domestic LPG will now cost Rs 913 per cylinder in Delhi as against Rs 853 previously. This is the second increase in rates in 11 months. Prices were last hiked by Rs 50 in April last year. On the other hand, the price of commercial LPG has been increased by Rs 114.5 per 19-kg cylinder. It now costs Rs 1,883 in Delhi. This increase comes on top of the Rs 28 per 19-kg cylinder increase on March 1.
Commercial LPG rates have risen by Rs 302.50 this year. India being a welfare state should work out a solution to contain the prices of the household fuel as safeguarding the interests of the common citizen must remain the foremost priority of the government. The onus now depends on the concerned authorities to find out a remedy and ease the burden on households by ensuring that essential commodities remain affordable for all people.
