Indian National Congress launched a sharp attack on Narendra Modi after the latest increase in petrol and diesel prices across the country.

The opposition party accused the central government of placing a growing financial burden on ordinary citizens and referred to the Prime Minister as “Inflation Man” while criticizing the recent fuel price hikes.

Congress Says Public Is Facing Economic Pressure

According to Congress leaders, fuel prices have risen rapidly over the past few days, increasing the financial stress on households already dealing with inflation.

The party claimed that petrol and diesel prices have been increased multiple times within a short period, warning that this may only be the beginning of further price hikes.

Congress alleged that after elections conclude, the government begins recovering costs from the public through higher fuel prices and rising living expenses.

Fuel Prices Rise Again Across India

Fuel prices reportedly witnessed another major jump on Tuesday, with petrol and diesel rates increasing by around 90 paise per litre on average.

This came shortly after an earlier hike announced on May 15, when fuel prices were increased by nearly ₹3 per litre nationwide.

The back-to-back hikes have intensified political debate as consumers continue to face pressure from rising transportation and daily living costs.

Experts Warn More Hikes May Be Needed

Energy market experts believe oil marketing companies may still require additional fuel price increases if international crude oil prices continue climbing.

According to energy analysts, global crude oil volatility and supply concerns are putting pressure on public sector oil marketing companies.

Some experts estimate that if global oil prices remain elevated, total fuel price increases of up to ₹10 per litre may eventually be required to offset current losses faced by oil companies.

Why Fuel Prices Are Increasing

The latest rise in petrol and diesel prices is being linked to several global factors, including:

• Rising international crude oil prices
• Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East
• Supply chain disruptions
• Higher import costs
• Currency fluctuations

Global energy markets have remained unstable due to ongoing conflicts and uncertainty surrounding oil-producing regions.

Impact on Common Citizens

Higher fuel prices generally affect much more than transportation alone.

When petrol and diesel become expensive, the cost of:

• Public transport
• Food delivery
• Logistics
• Vegetables and groceries
• Manufacturing and services

also tends to rise gradually.

Economists often warn that sustained fuel inflation can directly contribute to broader retail inflation across the economy.

Oil Companies Under Financial Pressure

Analysts suggest that state-run oil marketing companies are currently facing significant pressure due to rising global crude oil costs.

Reports indicate that every ₹1 per litre increase in fuel prices can substantially improve the annual earnings of major public sector oil companies.

However, experts say the recent hikes may still cover only a portion of the financial losses being faced by the sector.

Political Debate Likely to Intensify

Fuel prices have long remained one of the most politically sensitive issues in India.

With crude oil prices fluctuating globally and domestic inflation concerns rising, the debate between the government and opposition parties over fuel pricing policy is expected to intensify further in the coming weeks.