Mumbai, November 2, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Shiv Sena (UBT) has criticised the Centre over the recent increase in CNG and commercial LPG prices, describing the hikes as a “cruel Diwali gift” for households and businesses already facing inflation and economic hardship.
In an editorial in its mouthpiece Saamana, the Uddhav Thackeray-led party said the price increases had added to the burden on ordinary citizens and farmers in Maharashtra, where it claimed drought conditions had severely affected livelihoods.
The editorial said CNG prices in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region had been raised by Re 1 per kg, marking the sixth increase in six months, while commercial LPG cylinder prices had gone up by Rs 10.
It questioned whether people would be able to celebrate Diwali amid rising expenses, arguing that families had been left with little room in their budgets for festive purchases.
The party also rejected the Centre’s defence that domestic LPG cylinder prices had not been increased. It argued that higher commercial LPG rates would eventually affect consumers through increased costs at restaurants, hotels and food outlets, including those selling ready-made Diwali snacks and sweets.
The editorial recalled a commercial LPG price increase of Rs 1,000 in May and described the subsequent reduction as inadequate, alleging that prices were again moving upwards.
It further linked the pressure on household budgets to food inflation, drought conditions and the economic impact of the Iran-America conflict. Citing food inflation of 7.74 per cent, it said the prices of pulses, grains and other essentials had become increasingly difficult for families to manage.
Targeting the government’s economic messaging, the Thackeray camp alleged that fuel prices had been held back for political reasons until Assembly elections in five states were over. It also criticised the Prime Minister’s appeal for austerity, arguing that rising prices were leaving citizens with little money to save or spend.
The remarks reflect the party’s political attack on the Centre over the cost of living during the festive season.
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