Bhubaneswar, March 11: Members of the BJD's women, youth, and student wings staged a protest at Master Canteen Square, Bhubaneswar, on Wednesday, condemning the rising prices of LPG cylinders and essential commodities.
The demonstration, organized by Biju Mahila Janata Dal, Biju Yuba Janata Dal, and Biju Chatra Janata Dal, featured symbolic tea preparation on traditional chulhas to highlight the impact of escalating cooking fuel costs.
BJD leaders criticized the central government for the sharp hike in LPG prices, with domestic cylinders rising by Rs 60 and commercial ones by Rs 119. They also pointed out the surge in cooking oil prices to nearly Rs 170 per litre, burdening families. Leaders called for stronger economic and energy policies, accusing the government of failing to protect citizens from fluctuating international prices.
BJD Rajya Sabha MP Sasmit Patra also joined the protest, questioning the Odisha government's actions under the "double-engine" regime. He urged the government to clarify the status of oil and LPG availability, stating that silence on the matter only fuels public speculation.
