Congress Accuses Modi Government of Failing to Curb Food Inflation Amid Rising Prices During Navratri

New Delhi, Oct 11 : The Congress on Sunday accused the Narendra Modi government of failing to control food inflation, alleging that rising prices of essential commodities were adding to the financial burden on poor and middle-class families during the Navratri festival.

Congress general secretary in-charge of communications Jairam Ramesh claimed that the rising prices of sugar, milk, flour and pulses were making it increasingly difficult for ordinary households to manage their daily expenses while meeting additional festive expenditure.

In a post on social media platform X, Ramesh said, "Inflation has broken all records," accusing the government of allowing the prices of essential commodities to rise sharply.

He claimed that sugar prices had increased by 10 per cent in just 20 days, while milk and flour had become up to 6 per cent more expensive. Referring to the recent rise in sugar prices, he alleged that the cost had jumped from Rs 49 to Rs 55 per kilogram in just four days.

"Now, should the common people celebrate the festival or manage their kitchen budgets?" Ramesh asked, questioning the government's handling of inflation and its impact on household expenditure.

The Congress leader alleged that rising prices were disproportionately affecting economically vulnerable sections and middle-class families, reducing their ability to meet everyday needs.

Launching a broader political attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Ramesh alleged that the government had lost the people's confidence and accused it of pursuing an approach that weakened public resistance to what he described as authoritarian rule.

"The direct formula of Modi, who has lost the trust of the people, is to keep the stomachs of the poor and the middle class empty so that they cannot raise their voices against dictatorship," he alleged.

Food prices remain a politically sensitive issue in India, as the cost of essential commodities such as cereals, dairy products, sugar and pulses directly affects household budgets, particularly those of lower-income families.

The festive season often brings additional expenditure on food and other necessities, making price increases a further concern for households already struggling to balance their income and expenses.

The Congress has repeatedly criticised the Modi government over the rising cost of living, arguing that inflation is eroding the purchasing power of ordinary citizens. The affordability of essential commodities and the government's response to price pressures have remained key points of contention between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and the Opposition.

Ramesh's latest remarks reflect the Congress's continuing effort to highlight household expenses and the affordability of everyday necessities as major political issues, particularly during the festive season.