BJD protests LPG price hike in Bhubaneswar, warns of statewide agitation

Bhubaneswar, Mar 11: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD), the principal opposition party in Odisha, on Wednesday staged a protest in Bhubaneswar against the recent hike in LPG cylinder prices, cooking oil and other essential commodities, terming the increase “arbitrary” and anti-people.

Hundreds of party supporters, including women, youth, students and common citizens, gathered to express their anger over the rising cost of essential items, which they said has severely affected the daily lives of ordinary people across the state.

Members of the BJD’s Women, Youth and Student wings actively participated in the demonstration, highlighting the growing dissatisfaction among different sections of society.

The protest was led by BJD Women’s Wing President Snehangini Chhuria, Youth Wing President Chinmay Sahu and Student Wing President Ipsita Sahu, who strongly criticised the price hike and accused the state government of failing to address the concerns of the public.

During the demonstration, protesters symbolically cooked food on wooden stoves and raised slogans against the BJP-led government, alleging negligence and inaction in controlling the rising prices of essential commodities.

According to the BJD, the price of domestic LPG cylinders has increased by ₹60 since March 7, while commercial LPG cylinders have gone up by ₹115. The party said the hike has placed an additional financial burden on households, small businesses and commercial establishments.

Addressing the gathering, Snehangini Chhuria said the increase in LPG prices has particularly affected women, who are responsible for managing household budgets. She alleged that instead of easing the financial pressure on families, the government’s decision has worsened their situation.

Youth Wing President Chinmay Sahu accused the “double-engine government” of prioritising the interests of oil companies over the welfare of common people and failing to pass on the benefits of price adjustments to consumers.

Student Wing President Ipsita Sahu expressed concern over the impact on students, especially those living in hostels, saying the rising prices could lead to higher hostel mess charges and increased monthly expenses.

The BJD leaders warned that if the government fails to roll back the price hike and ensure a stable supply of LPG cylinders, the party will intensify its protest and launch a massive statewide agitation in the coming days.