Mamata Banerjee Spearheads Trinamool Protests Against LPG Price Surge
Synopsis
On International Women's Day, Mamata Banerjee leads a poignant protest against rising LPG cylinder prices. Dressed in black, Trinamool Congress leaders highlight the impact of geopolitical tensions on everyday life. Join the movement as they demand action for the common people.
Key Takeaways
Mamata Banerjee leads a significant protest on International Women's Day .
Protesters wore black sarees to symbolize their dissent.
The price of household LPG cylinders increased by Rs 60 .
Protests highlight the impact of geopolitical issues on domestic prices.
The government has been urged to ensure adequate LPG supply for consumers.
Kolkata, March 8 (NationPress) On the occasion of International Women's Day, female leaders and supporters of the Trinamool Congress organized a protest against the rising prices of cooking gas, donning black sarees as a symbol of their dissent.
A march commenced on Sunday from Subodh Mallick Square, where participants dressed in black made their way to the sit-in demonstration led by party chief and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at Esplanade.
The protest was spearheaded by State Ministers Shashi Panja and Chandrima Bhattacharya. While the sit-in was ongoing, attendees also wore black sarees, with Mamata herself participating while holding symbolic gas cylinders.
Traditionally, the Trinamool Congress engages in various initiatives on International Women's Day. This year, the focus was on the concerning increase in LPG cylinder prices, attributed to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
On the previous day, Mamata expressed her frustration regarding the surge in LPG cylinder costs and called for a peaceful protest against these increases.
Addressing the crowd at the Esplanade sit-in, the Chief Minister urged citizens to join the demonstration with kitchen utensils in hand.
As a result of the escalating tensions in the Middle East, the price of cooking gas cylinders in India rose significantly. Effective from Friday midnight, the cost of household cooking gas cylinders increased by Rs 60.
"Just yesterday, the cooking gas price was raised by 60 rupees. Prior to that, the commercial gas price rose by 49 rupees. Now, a large cylinder costs 2,100 rupees, while a small one is nearly 1,000 rupees. They expect you to order LPG cylinders 21 days in advance. What about those who run out of gas? Will they go without cooking for 21 days? Have they considered these issues? What will families eat?" she stated.
The government has instructed Indian refiners to boost their LPG production, ensuring that public sector oil marketing companies distribute the LPG exclusively to domestic consumers.
The Centre has officially increased the price of a 14.2 kg domestic cooking gas cylinder by Rs 60, changing the cost from Rs 879 to Rs 939. This new price took effect on Saturday.
The cost of commercial gas has also seen a rise, with an increase of Rs 50, pushing the price from Rs 114 to Rs 1990.
Point of View
The protest led by Mamata Banerjee highlights the pressing issue of rising LPG prices amidst global tensions. It underscores the importance of listening to the voices of citizens affected by such changes, reflecting a broader narrative of accountability and governance.
NationPress
30 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for the protest by Trinamool Congress?
The protest was organized to express dissent against the recent hike in cooking gas prices, which has been attributed to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Who led the protest on International Women's Day?
The protest was led by Mamata Banerjee along with State Ministers Shashi Panja and Chandrima Bhattacharya.
What symbolic gesture did the protesters use?
Protesters wore black sarees and carried symbolic gas cylinders to represent their discontent with rising gas prices.
What are the new prices of cooking gas cylinders?
The price of a 14.2 kg domestic cooking gas cylinder has increased by Rs 60, now costing Rs 939.
What action has the government taken regarding LPG production?
The government has directed Indian refiners to maximize LPG output, ensuring that it is marketed solely to domestic consumers.
