Rahul Gandhi Raises Concerns Over Inflation, Rupee Fall, and Rising Fuel Prices

Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Saturday sharply criticised the Centre, alleging that the government lacks both direction and strategy in handling the economy, while warning of rising inflation and its potential impact on ordinary citizens. His remarks came in a post on the social media platform X, where he outlined concerns over currency depreciation and increasing fuel costs.

Gandhi pointed to the weakening of the Indian rupee against the US dollar—approaching the 100 mark—and a sharp rise in industrial fuel prices as early indicators of inflationary pressure. He argued that these developments are not isolated data points but warning signs of broader economic stress that could soon affect households across the country.

In his post, Gandhi criticised the government’s response, stating that official assurances describing the situation as “normal” do not reflect ground realities. He accused the administration led by Narendra Modi of relying on rhetoric rather than concrete economic planning. “The question isn’t what the government is saying, it’s what’s left on your plate,” he wrote, highlighting concerns about rising living costs.

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The Congress leader further cautioned that continued economic trends could lead to higher production and transportation costs, which would eventually drive up prices of everyday goods. He noted that micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are likely to be among the worst affected, as they are particularly vulnerable to fluctuations in input costs and demand.

Gandhi also warned of potential capital outflows, suggesting that foreign institutional investors (FIIs) could withdraw funds at a faster pace, adding pressure on the stock market. He claimed that such developments would have a direct and significant impact on household finances and hinted at possible increases in fuel prices, including petrol, diesel and LPG, in the near future.

His remarks come amid reports of LPG supply disruptions and a weakening rupee, which recorded its steepest single-day decline in over four years, closing at 93.71 against the dollar on Friday. The depreciation has been attributed in part to global uncertainties, including ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia, further intensifying concerns about inflation and economic stability.

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