25 May,2026 02:39 PM IST | Nagpur | mid-day online correspondent
Maharashtra minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule. File Pic
Maharashtra minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Monday criticised the Congress party over its remarks on the recent fuel price hikes, accusing it of spreading negativity and misleading people while ignoring global factors affecting energy prices, reported ANI.
Bawankule defended the government's decision to revise fuel prices, saying the increases were linked to international market conditions and ongoing geopolitical tensions, reported ANI.
Responding to criticism from opposition leaders over rising petrol and diesel prices, Bawankule alleged that the Congress party was attempting to create confusion among citizens.
"Congress is trying to create negativity and confuse the people," Bawankule said while speaking to reporters in Nagpur, reported ANI.
He also criticised the party's political record and claimed the Congress was attempting to politicise fuel price revisions despite similar increases taking place in the past, reported ANI.
According to the minister, fuel price hikes are not unprecedented and have occurred under previous governments as well.
Bawankule said the government understands public concerns over rising fuel prices but added that decisions are being influenced by the prevailing global situation, reported ANI.
"We too do not wish for such hikes. However, considering the situation prevailing across the world, such decisions are being taken," he said.
The latest fuel price revision comes amid continued volatility in international crude oil markets and geopolitical tensions in West Asia, which have affected global energy supply chains.
Petrol and diesel prices were revised upward again on Monday, marking the fourth increase in less than two weeks.
In Delhi, petrol prices rose by Rs 2.61 per litre to Rs 102.12 per litre, crossing the Rs 100 mark once again. Diesel prices increased by Rs 2.71 to Rs 95.20 per litre.
Mumbai recorded petrol prices of Rs 111.21 per litre after a Rs 2.72 increase, while diesel prices climbed to Rs 97.83 per litre.
In Kolkata, petrol prices rose to Rs 113.51 per litre and diesel to Rs 99.82 per litre after the latest hike.
Chennai also witnessed fresh revisions, with petrol prices increasing to Rs 107.77 per litre and diesel reaching Rs 99.55 per litre.
The latest revision follows three earlier increases in fuel prices since May 15.
On May 15, petrol and diesel prices were increased by around Rs 3 per litre. Another hike of 90 paise per litre followed on May 19, while petrol prices rose by 87 paise and diesel by 91 paise on May 23.
The repeated hikes have raised concerns among commuters, transport operators and businesses over increasing transportation and operational costs.
Economists have also warned that sustained fuel price increases could contribute to inflationary pressure by raising logistics and supply chain expenses.
Alongside petrol and diesel prices, compressed natural gas (CNG) prices in Delhi were also increased earlier this week.
CNG prices were raised by Rs 1 per kg on Saturday, marking the third increase within 10 days.
Following the latest revision, CNG in the national capital is now retailing at Rs 81.09 per kg, adding further pressure on households and commercial transport operators dependent on gas-powered vehicles.
(With inputs from ANI)
