Guwahati, May 16: The All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) launched a sharp attack on both the Centre and the Assam government over the continued rise in prices of essential commodities, alleging that ordinary people are being pushed into financial distress due to unchecked inflation and increasing economic pressure.
In a statement issued from its headquarters at Gauhati University, the student body said the steep rise in the prices of everyday items has created a severe burden on households and accused the governments of failing to provide relief to citizens. According to the organisation, the rising cost of living has significantly affected people across different sections of society.
AASU president Utpal Sharma and general secretary Samiran Phukan stated that the continuous increase in prices has become unbearable for common people while alleging that the authorities have remained indifferent to the situation.
The organisation demanded immediate intervention to control inflation and reduce the prices of essential goods, warning that it may launch democratic protests if steps are not taken in the near future.
According to AASU, the prices of key household commodities including rice, pulses, edible oil, milk, sugar and vegetables have increased substantially, creating difficulties particularly for middle-class and economically weaker families.
The student body also expressed concern over the rise in commercial LPG cylinder prices, stating that tea stalls, restaurants and small hotels are facing mounting operational costs. It further claimed that educational institution hostels are also experiencing increasing financial pressure due to higher expenses.
AASU additionally pointed to the recent rise in petrol and diesel prices, alleging that higher fuel costs have worsened the overall economic situation and contributed to further increases in market prices.
The organisation claimed that inflation accelerated after the conclusion of Assembly elections in five states and accused both the state and central governments of failing to shield citizens from the impact of the crisis.
It also raised concerns over the weakening value of the Indian rupee against the US dollar, arguing that the broader economic situation has become a matter of public concern. Referring to recent calls for austerity measures by national leaders, AASU said such developments have further increased anxiety among people.
Reiterating its position, the student organisation said the situation had crossed acceptable limits and demanded urgent corrective measures, warning that if relief does not reach the public soon, people across Assam could be forced to take to the streets in protest.
