The Congress on Monday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi over rising prices of essential food items ahead of Diwali, urging him to set aside his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat, and address the concerns of households struggling with higher expenses.

Congress general secretary in-charge of communications Jairam Ramesh shared media reports on X highlighting rising food prices and the impact of inflation on household budgets. One report cited the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), while another pointed to a rise in dry fruit prices ahead of the festival.