Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge accused the BJP-led government of raising fuel prices after recent elections to avoid a major electoral setback.
The timing of the price hikes has become a central political flashpoint, as the opposition argues that the administration deliberately manipulated the cost of living to secure votes before implementing increases that disproportionately affect low-income citizens.
Speaking in Bengaluru, Kharge targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP government regarding the price revisions announced on May 15, 2026 [1]. The updates saw retail prices for petrol and diesel increase by approximately three rupees per litre [1]. Additionally, the cost of compressed natural gas (CNG) rose by approximately two rupees per kg [1].
Kharge said the government failed to foresee inflation and price rise [2]. He argued that the administration waited until the polls concluded to implement the changes to protect its political standing.
"The Centre hiked fuel prices post-election to avoid a major setback," Kharge said [3].
The Congress leader suggested that the government was aware of the potential political fallout had the costs risen earlier. "Had PM Modi increased this before elections, it would have been understandable, because he knew doing this would have been a major..." Kharge said [4].
Opposition leaders have pointed to rising inflation as a growing crisis for the poor. They argue that the sudden increase in transport and fuel costs creates a ripple effect that raises the price of essential goods across the country. Kharge said the current economic trajectory shows a failure in government foresight regarding price stability [2].
“"The Centre hiked fuel prices post-election to avoid a major setback."”
The accusations from the Congress party highlight a recurring tension in Indian politics where fuel pricing is used as a proxy for economic governance. By linking the May 15 price hike to the election cycle, Kharge is attempting to frame the BJP government as opportunistic and disconnected from the financial struggles of the poor, potentially setting the stage for broader protests against inflation.
