Strongly opposing the continuous rise in petrol, diesel and essential commodity prices, the Congress party staged a large-scale protest in Phagwara today, alleging that the Central Government’s economic policies are pushing common citizens into severe financial distress. The protest, marked by symbolic demonstrations including a “bullock cart march” and cyclists riding through the city, saw party leaders and workers raising slogans against the government while expressing concern over rising inflation and unemployment.
The demonstration was led by District Kapurthala Congress Committee President and Phagwara MLA Balwinder Singh Dhaliwal, under whose leadership party workers gathered at the rest house on GT Road before proceeding through the main markets of Phagwara towards the bus stand. The protest procession drew attention as participants used traditional bullock carts and bicycles to symbolically highlight what they described as an economic regression caused by rising fuel prices.
According to party leaders, the escalating cost of petrol and diesel has significantly impacted transportation, household budgets and small businesses, worsening the overall cost of living. Addressing the gathering, Dhaliwal alleged that the Central Government’s economic policies have disproportionately benefited corporate houses while placing an increasing burden on ordinary citizens. He stated that inflation and unemployment have reached alarming levels, leaving middle and lower-income families struggling to meet daily expenses.
He further criticised the government’s taxation policies during the COVID-19 pandemic period, claiming that even when crude oil prices had fallen sharply in international markets, consumers were not provided relief. Instead, he alleged, taxes on fuel were increased, adding further financial pressure on the public. Dhaliwal also referred to past political assurances regarding fuel prices, arguing that the government has failed to uphold its commitments and has instead taken decisions driven by political and economic interests.
The Congress leader added that rising inflation has severely disrupted household budgets, making it increasingly difficult for common families to afford basic necessities, including food and fuel. He reiterated that the party would continue to raise its voice against price hikes and would intensify public agitation until the Central Government takes concrete steps to control inflation and reduce fuel prices.
The protest concluded peacefully after passing through major city routes, with a large number of Congress leaders, workers and supporters participating in the demonstration.
