Petrol and Diesel Become Costlier, Opposition Calls It ‘Burden on Common People’

India’s opposition parties have criticised the government after fuel retailers raised petrol and diesel prices again, intensifying concerns over inflation and the rising cost of living.

Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration of placing additional pressure on households already struggling with high food and transport costs. Opposition leaders claimed the repeated hikes in fuel prices would have a direct impact on everyday expenses across the country.

The latest increase comes amid ongoing volatility in global crude oil markets, driven largely by tensions in the Middle East and concerns over energy supply disruptions. State-owned fuel companies said the revision was necessary to offset mounting losses caused by rising international oil prices.

According to local reports, petrol and diesel prices have risen several times in recent weeks, pushing fuel costs to some of their highest levels this year. Economists warn that sustained increases could further raise inflation and affect transportation, agriculture and essential goods.

Congress criticised the timing of the hike, alleging that prices were kept under control during election periods before being raised afterward. AAP leaders also questioned the government’s tax policies on fuel, arguing that consumers were bearing the brunt of global economic pressures.

The government, however, defended the price adjustments, saying India remains heavily dependent on crude oil imports and must respond to changes in international markets. Officials added that geopolitical tensions, particularly around key shipping routes in the Middle East, had increased supply risks and import costs.

Analysts say fuel prices are likely to remain sensitive in the coming weeks as markets continue to monitor developments related to Iran and global energy supply chains.