Price rise, LPG shortage, black-marketing hit common people: Bhalla targets BJP-led Govt
22/03/2026
Jammu, March 22 (KIP)-Intensifying his attack on the BJP-led government at the Centre, Working President of the Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) and former minister Raman Bhalla on Sunday accused it of failing to address the pressing day-to-day issues faced by the common masses, particularly rising inflation and shortages of essential commodities.
Addressing a public function at Sai Kalan Khour Buan, Bhalla said that people across Jammu and Kashmir are reeling under the burden of unprecedented price rise, which has severely impacted household budgets.
He claimed that the Centre has failed to effectively regulate prices of essential commodities, leaving ordinary citizens to fend for themselves in the face of mounting economic stress.
“From food items to cooking fuel, everything has become costlier. The government has turned a blind eye to the sufferings of the people,” Bhalla said, adding that the BJP-led dispensation has been “shamelessly safeguarding the interests of big business houses” while neglecting the needs of the common man.
The Congress leader further alleged that since the formation of the BJP government at the Centre, the gap between the rich and the poor has widened considerably. “Instead of providing relief to the weaker sections, policies are being framed to benefit a select few, pushing the common masses into deeper financial distress,” he remarked.
Highlighting the impact of the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, Bhalla said that global developments have added to the economic strain, resulting in further escalation of prices and supply disruptions. He pointed out that the common people are bearing the brunt of these developments without any adequate intervention from the government.
He specifically raised concerns over the alleged black marketing and shortage of LPG cylinders, stating that many households are struggling to secure timely supplies.
“On one hand, prices have skyrocketed, and on the other, people are forced to run from pillar to post due to artificial shortages and black marketing. This reflects a complete failure of governance,” he said.
Bhalla also criticised the BJP for what he termed as “unfulfilled promises,” asserting that most of the commitments made to the public remain confined to paper.
“The government had made tall claims about improving the quality of life of citizens, but the ground reality tells a different story. People are disillusioned and feel betrayed,” he added.
During the interaction, local residents highlighted a range of civic issues, including irregular supply of essential commodities, inadequate public services, and rising cost of living. They urged immediate intervention to address their grievances and provide relief to affected households.
Reiterating the Congress party’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of the common people, Bhalla assured the gathering that their concerns would be taken up at appropriate forums. He emphasised the need for pro-people policies, effective price control mechanisms, and strict action against black marketing to ensure the availability of essential items at fair rates.