Reported by Sasanka Talukdar
Bajali: The Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuba Chatra Parishad (AJYCP) has strongly criticised the government over the sharp rise in prices of essential commodities, alleging that inflation is placing an unbearable burden on people across Assam.
Addressing the media, AJYCP general secretary Bijan Bayan said the steep increase in the prices of rice, pulses, onions, potatoes and other daily essentials has severely affected poor and middle-class families.
He alleged that the continuous rise in the prices of medicines and LPG cylinders has further worsened the financial condition of ordinary households and patients.
According to Bayan, the price of commercial LPG cylinders has crossed Rs 3,000, creating serious difficulties for small hotels, restaurants and tea stalls across the state. He also claimed that hostel managements in educational institutions are facing a severe crisis due to rising operational expenses.
Bayan further alleged that the increase in petrol and diesel prices has pushed up transportation costs, indirectly affecting the prices of all commodities in the market.
The AJYCP leader also demanded immediate closure of liquor shops operating in villages and near educational institutions and religious places. He claimed that such establishments create a negative social atmosphere and adversely affect students and local residents.
He further alleged that the pace of price rise increased sharply after the conclusion of elections in five states and accused the government of using the prevailing war situation as an excuse for artificially increasing prices in Assam.
Questioning the state government, Bayan said that if the Tamil Nadu government could provide relief to people by offering free electricity up to 200 units despite inflationary pressures, the Assam government should also take similar measures to support the public.
The organisation urged both the Centre and the Assam government to take immediate steps to control the rising prices of essential commodities. It also warned that the AJYCP would launch statewide protests if effective measures were not taken soon.