Congress Leader Chidambaram Slams Centre; Questions Govt's Motive Behind Hiking LPG, Petrol Prices

Congress leader P Chidambaram on April 8 questioned the centre’s decision to hike the fuel prices despite a sharp decline in global crude oil rates. In a social media post on X (formerly Twitter), Chidambaram questioned the intent behind the recent hike in LPG cylinder prices and levying additional excise duties on petrol and diesel.

He wrote, “I am setting out the context in which the central government has increased the price of LPG cylinder and imposed additional excise duty on petrol and diesel.”

Demanding a clear media scrutiny, Chidambaram added, “The Hon’ble Union Minister of Petroleum’s ‘explanation’ has to be seen in this context — and critically analysed. I wish the media would ask more questions of the Hon’ble Union Minister.”

Declining crude oil prices

Crude oil prices have declined significantly since January 2025 as Brent crude oil fell by USD 10.31 per barrel or 14.37% since January 1. Interestingly, Brent crude stands at USD 64.62 per barrel, which is even less than half of its historic high of USD 147.27 per barrel in July 2008.

However, despite a sharp decline, the centre has decided to hike LPG cylinder prices, while imposing additional excise duties on petrol and diesel.

From April 8, the price of domestic LPG cylinders will be increased by ₹50, Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on April 7.

As per the revised rates, beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala will now be getting LPG cylinders at ₹550, up from the previous Rs 500. Similarly, the price of non-subsidised cylinders will increase to ₹853.