Politics · India Bureau
Congress attacks Modi government over surging food prices
The opposition Congress party has criticized the prime minister over sharp increases in retail prices of essential food items, citing data showing onion prices nearly doubling in recent months.
LSN India ·
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has alleged a significant spike in food prices under the current government, highlighting the case of onions as evidence of inflation pressures affecting Indian households.
According to Ramesh's claims, the all-India average retail price of onions surged from ₹29.50 per kilogram in June to ₹53.78 per kilogram by September—representing an 82.3 percent increase over just 3.5 months.
The Congress politician's comments underscore broader concerns about inflation in essential commodities, which have become a key political issue as food prices directly impact household budgets across the country. Onions, a staple ingredient in Indian kitchens, have historically been a barometer of inflation and political sentiment.
The remarks reflect the opposition's strategy to challenge the government's economic management ahead of key electoral contests. Food inflation has remained a persistent challenge for policymakers, with vegetable prices particularly prone to volatility due to seasonal supply fluctuations and other factors.